Is there anything more lovely than a classic lavender hedge? The quintessential charm of the border is often associated with cottage gardens. The plants not only produce a bevy of purple flowers but also an abundance of fragrance. Plant the hedge along any pathway or border in the landscape. You can even create a foundation planting of the carefree perennial plants. In this article we will look at the basic steps needed to plant a lavender hedge.
Learn How to Plant a Lavender Hedge
You’ll encounter a multitude of lavender cultivars when hunting for plants to use in a hedge. However, there three leading choices that stand out as your best options:
Lavandula angustifolia
When perusing local garden stores, you’ll probably run into the Lavandula angustifolia variety which is referred to as the ‘common lavender’. The flowers of this plant appear during the late spring and continue in a bevy of purple opulence until midsummer. This variety grows well in rocky soil conditions.
Lavandula x intermedia
The Lavandula x intermedia grows much taller than other forms of lavender. The flowers appear in midsummer and persist to late summer. This variety makes an impressive hedge. You can also harvest the flowers for use in potpourri.
Lavandula stoechas
Lavandula stoechas is favored throughout the southern states because it flourishes in USDA zones eight to nine. It blooms continuously from spring to fall.
Lavender Hedge Planting Location
Lavender plants require full sun to flourish. Ideally, they should receive at least 12 hours of sun per day. The plants are not overly picky about soil. They grow well in either poor or rich soil. The robust plants prefer a soil pH of 6.4 to 8.3. Test your soil prior to planting and if it is too acidic or alkaline then be sure to supplement as needed to attain an acceptable pH range.
Planting the Lavender Plants
Dig up an area that is at least 12 inches wide to plant the lavender. Loosen the soil to a depth of six to eight inches. Form a ridge of six inches high using a mixture of topsoil and compost. Space the lavender plants 11 to 12 inches apart. Water the plants and keep the soil moist but not overly wet while the newly planted lavender establishes itself. Once established, lavender does tolerate drought well. To create a denser hedge, consider staggering the plants when planting.
Lavender Care
When spring arrives, be sure to prune back your lavender plants by a third to encourage the plant to form bushier growth habits that make a denser hedge. Also, pruning encourages robust flower growth. Pruning also helps with airflow around the plants to prevent mold or mildew from developing.
Undoubtedly, a lavender hedge is a striking addition to your garden. The carefree plants look stunning from spring to fall and require only minimal care.
To ensure that your lavender blooms and grows well, fertilize the plants using Humboldts Secret Supplies.
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