Growing Hidcote lavender from seed can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it does require some careful attention and patience. Here are some steps and tips to help you successfully grow Hidcote lavender from seed:
1. Choosing the right seeds: When it comes to lavender, it is essential to choose high-quality seeds from a reputable source. Look for fresh seeds that have been properly stored to ensure good germination rates. Hidcote lavender (Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’) is a popular variety known for its compact growth habit and deep purple flowers.
2. Preparing the soil: Lavender plants thrive in well-draining soil with a slightly alkaline pH. Before sowing the seeds, prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris and loosening it with a garden fork or tiller. You can also add some organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil structure and fertility.
3. Sowing the seeds: Lavender seeds are tiny, so it’s important to handle them with care. Fill a seed tray or small pots with a good quality seed starting mix, and lightly press the soil to create a firm surface. Sprinkle the lavender seeds evenly over the soil surface, and then lightly cover them with a thin layer of vermiculite or fine sand. Gently water the soil using a misting spray or a watering can with a fine rose attachment.
4. Providing the right conditions: Lavender seeds require specific conditions for germination. They prefer warm temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) during the day and slightly cooler temperatures at night. To simulate these conditions, you can use a seed tray cover or a plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse effect. Place the tray in a warm, bright location, such as a sunny windowsill or under grow lights.
5. Patience and care: Germination can take anywhere from 2-4 weeks, so be patient and monitor the soil moisture regularly. Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to fungal diseases or damping-off. If the soil becomes dry, mist it gently with water to keep it moist. Once the seedlings emerge, remove the cover or bag and provide good air circulation to prevent damping-off.
6. Transplanting the seedlings: When the lavender seedlings have developed their first true leaves and are large enough to handle, you can transplant them into individual pots or containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure that the containers have adequate drainage holes. Gently lift the seedlings using a small plant label or a fork, taking care not to damage the delicate roots. Plant them at the same depth as they were in the seed tray, and water thoroughly.
7. Harden off and plant outdoors: Before planting the lavender seedlings in their final location outdoors, it’s important to harden them off gradually. This involves gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions, starting with a few hours in a sheltered spot and gradually increasing their time outside over a week or two. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil for planting, and space the plants about 12-18 inches apart.
8. Care and maintenance: Once planted, lavender plants require minimal care. Water them deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Lavender is drought-tolerant and will not tolerate soggy soil. Prune the plants lightly in early spring to promote bushier growth and remove any dead or damaged branches. Harvest the flowers just as they begin to open for culinary or aromatic purposes.
Growing Hidcote lavender from seed can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience with the right seeds and proper care. Enjoy the process and the beauty and fragrance that these lovely plants will bring to your garden!
