Lavender is a versatile and fragrant herb that can thrive in a variety of climates, including the diverse conditions found in Colorado. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to successfully grow and care for lavender in Colorado, ensuring that your plants flourish and add beauty and fragrance to your garden.
Understanding Lavender
Botanical Background
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Genus: Lavandula
- Common Varieties: English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), French Lavender (Lavandula dentata), Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas), and Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia)
Appearance
- Flowers: Spikes of small, fragrant flowers that can be purple, blue, pink, or white.
- Leaves: Narrow, gray-green, and aromatic.
- Growth Habit: Bushy, perennial shrubs that can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide.
Ideal Growing Conditions
- Light: Full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day)
- Soil: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with a pH of 6.5-7.5
- Watering: Moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings
- Temperature: Lavender prefers warm temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 5-9. Some varieties, like English Lavender, can tolerate colder climates found in Colorado.
Preparing to Grow Lavender in Colorado
Selecting a Variety
Choose a lavender variety that is well-suited to Colorado’s climate. English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia) are good choices due to their cold hardiness and adaptability.
Soil Preparation
Lavender requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Amend heavy clay soils with sand, gravel, or organic matter to improve drainage. Raised beds or mounds can also help enhance drainage.
Planting Lavender
Steps to Plant
- Choose the Right Time: Plant lavender in the spring or early fall when temperatures are mild.
- Prepare the Site: Select a sunny location with well-draining soil. Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for air circulation and growth.
- Planting: Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball. Place the lavender plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill with soil and press gently to remove air pockets.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and then water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Caring for Lavender in Colorado
Watering
Lavender is drought-tolerant once established. Water young plants regularly during the first growing season to help them establish deep roots. After that, water only during prolonged dry periods.
Fertilizing
Lavender does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of compost or a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring is usually sufficient. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive leafy growth with fewer flowers.
Pruning
Prune lavender annually to maintain its shape and encourage bushy growth. The best time to prune is in the early spring before new growth begins. Remove about one-third of the plant’s height, being careful not to cut into the woody stems.
Mulching
Apply a thin layer of mulch around the base of the plants to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Gravel or small stones make excellent mulch for lavender, as they improve drainage and reflect sunlight.
Propagating Lavender
Propagation Methods
Lavender can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or layering.
- Seeds:
- Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
- Sow seeds in a well-draining seed starting mix and keep them in a warm, sunny location.
- Transplant seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
- Cuttings:
- Take 3-4 inch cuttings from new growth in the spring or summer.
- Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
- Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix and keep them in a warm, sunny location until roots develop.
- Layering:
- Select a low-growing branch and gently bend it to the ground.
- Cover a section of the branch with soil, leaving the tip exposed.
- Secure the branch with a stone or stake and water regularly until roots develop.
Common Issues and Solutions
Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Check the soil moisture and ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.
Poor Flowering
Poor flowering can result from insufficient sunlight, over-fertilizing, or improper pruning. Ensure the plants receive full sun and follow proper fertilizing and pruning practices.
Pests and Diseases
Lavender is generally pest-resistant but can occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, or fungal diseases. Inspect plants regularly and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Enjoying Your Lavender
Lavender is a versatile plant that can be used in various ways:
- Culinary: Use fresh or dried lavender in cooking, baking, or to make herbal teas.
- Aromatherapy: Use lavender essential oil for its calming and relaxing properties.
- Crafts: Create sachets, potpourri, or dried flower arrangements.
- Garden Design: Use lavender as a border plant, in rock gardens, or as a fragrant hedge.
Conclusion
Growing and caring for lavender in Colorado is a rewarding experience that brings beauty, fragrance, and a touch of the Mediterranean to your garden. By following the guidelines in this comprehensive guide, you’ll ensure your lavender thrives and provides years of enjoyment. Happy gardening!
