As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can offer you some suggestions on what you can do with your lavender clippings. Lavender is a versatile plant with various uses, so there are several options for you to consider.
1. Propagate new plants: One of the best things you can do with your lavender clippings is to propagate new plants. Lavender can be easily propagated from cuttings, and this is a great way to expand your lavender collection or share plants with friends and family. To do this, take 4-6 inch cuttings from non-flowering stems, remove the lower leaves, and place them in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, sunny location. With proper care, the cuttings should develop roots within a few weeks and can then be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
2. Dry and use for crafts: Another popular use for lavender clippings is to dry them and use them for crafts. Hang the cuttings upside down in a dark, well-ventilated area until they are completely dry. Once dried, you can use the lavender for making potpourri, sachets, or even homemade lavender-infused oils and soaps. The fragrant and calming properties of lavender make it a wonderful addition to homemade products or gifts.
3. Culinary uses: Lavender is also a culinary herb and can be used in cooking and baking. The flowers can be used to infuse flavor into various dishes such as desserts, teas, and even savory recipes. However, it’s important to note that not all lavender varieties are suitable for culinary use, so make sure you have a culinary lavender variety before using it in your kitchen.
4. Pest repellent: Lavender has natural pest-repellent properties, especially against mosquitoes, flies, and moths. You can tie bunches of dried lavender or place lavender sachets in your closet, drawers, or pantry to keep pests away. Additionally, planting lavender in your garden can help deter pests and attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.
5. Decorative purposes: Lavender clippings can also be used for decorative purposes. They can be arranged in vases or woven into wreaths and garlands to add a touch of beauty and fragrance to your home. Lavender’s delicate purple flowers and aromatic scent make it a popular choice for floral arrangements and decorations.
6. Herbal remedies: Lavender has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. You can use dried lavender flowers to make herbal teas or infusions that can help promote relaxation and relieve stress. Lavender oil, extracted from the flowers, is also used in aromatherapy and as a natural remedy for various ailments like headaches, insomnia, and anxiety.
Lavender clippings have numerous uses ranging from propagation to culinary, decorative, and medicinal purposes. Whether you want to expand your lavender collection, create handmade crafts, add flavor to your dishes, repel pests, or enjoy the therapeutic benefits of lavender, there are plenty of options to explore with your lavender clippings. Get creative and make the most out of this versatile and beautiful herb!
