Pruning lavender is an essential task to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms. However, it is important to time your pruning correctly to ensure the best results. In the case of lavender, it is generally recommended to avoid pruning during the winter months.
Lavender plants have a tendency to become woody and less productive if left unpruned. Regular pruning helps to maintain their shape, prevent them from becoming leggy, and encourage new growth. Pruning also helps to promote air circulation and prevent diseases.
The reason for avoiding winter pruning is that lavender plants are not dormant during this time. Pruning during the winter can stimulate new growth, which is susceptible to damage from frost or cold temperatures. It is best to wait until after the bloom period in spring or early fall before any danger of frost.
When you do decide to prune your lavender, it is important to follow a few guidelines. Firstly, make sure to use sharp and clean pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. It is recommended to remove about one-third of the plant’s height, cutting just above a leaf node to encourage branching.
Another aspect to consider is the specific type of lavender you have. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia) should be pruned more lightly, leaving some green growth intact, as they tend to be less cold-hardy. On the other hand, Spanish lavender (Lavandula stoechas) can be pruned more heavily, as it is more tolerant of pruning and colder temperatures.
In my personal experience, I have found that pruning lavender in the spring after the first flush of blooms has faded works well. This allows the plant to recover and produce another round of blooms later in the season. However, if your lavender is overgrown or has become too woody, a more extensive pruning may be necessary in early fall.
To summarize, while lavender does benefit from pruning, it is best to avoid pruning during the winter months. Wait until after bloom in spring or early fall to prune your lavender plants, using sharp and clean pruning shears. Follow the specific pruning guidelines for your lavender variety, and remember that a lighter pruning is generally recommended for English lavender and lavandin. By timing your pruning correctly and following proper techniques, you can help your lavender plants thrive and produce beautiful blooms.
