Whether you’re starting a home garden or looking for a beautiful landscaping idea, lavender plants are a hit! But these fragrant plants require protection from pests and plenty of love to thrive.
Without proper care, your lavender tree could wither away. Keep reading for everything you need to know about how to care for lavender trees.
Plant Location
When planting lavender trees, it is important to consider their location. First and foremost, lavender trees require full sun exposure for optimal growth and blooming. Avoid shaded areas, as these will stunt the growth of the tree.
Additionally, when planting in a windy location, ensure that the tree is well protected. Furthermore, ensure that the planting location is far enough away from other plants that its leaves and branches have enough room to maneuver.
Soil Preparation
The soil should be well-draining and well-aerated. It is best to use a combination of 50% topsoil and 50% compost.
Before planting the lavender tree, mix 1/2 cup of fertilizer into the soil. Additionally, you should test the soil pH levels before planting to make sure they are slightly acidic at around 6.0 to 7.0. Once planted, the soil should be kept moist but not wet. Regularly apply water and mulch to maintain moisture levels.
Spacing When Planting
To ensure healthy growth and prevent overcrowding, ensure that each shrub has at least 24-36 inches of space in all directions. If planting more than one tree together, space the trees evenly so that each shrub has the same amount of room to grow. When planting in rows, space the plants 24-36 inches apart and provide at least a 4-5 foot space between rows.
Watering
Watering your lavender tree should be done on a consistent basis, without over-watering the tree too little or too much can harm the tree. To properly water, it is best to water each plant in the morning.
This ensures they have plenty of water throughout the day and allows the water to disperse through the ground and out the bottom of the pot, allowing for proper drainage. Make sure you check the soil frequently, as this will tell you how much water the tree needs.
The soil should be dry on the top half inch before watering it again. If you see any signs of wilting or browning, you may need to adjust the amount you are watering. Use a soil meter or poke your finger into the soil to check the moisture level.
Pruning
Pruning should take place in the spring before new growth begins. Start by removing dead, damaged, or weak branches, then trim back overgrown stems and any crossing branches.
When trimming lavender growth, avoid cutting more than one-third of the plant. Consider pruning the tips of the branches to encourage the plant to produce more flowers and foliage.
Deadheading spent blossoms is also encouraged to prevent self-seeding. Finally, apply a balanced fertilizer to the root zone before and after the pruning and at the start of the growing season.
Fertilizing
Fertilization is essential for managing a healthy lavender tree plant. It’s important to give the tree a light feeding three times a year during late winter, spring, and summer.
An all-purpose fertilizer would be a suitable option. Just sprinkle it lightly on the soil surface, avoiding the center of the plant, and water it in. Refrain from applying fertilizer in late fall and winter as this can create an increase in growth that can’t tolerate cold temperatures.
Lastly, when fertilizing a lavender tree, be sure to use one specifically tailored for acid-loving plants and stick to the usual guidelines pertaining to the timing of applications.
Mulching
Mulching helps the lavender tree keep moisture in the soil and keeps the weeds away. First, the area around the lavender tree should be cleared of any weeds or dead grass. The mulch should then be spread in a 2-3 inch layer, covering an area around the tree approximately 2-3 feet in diameter.
Bark, leaves, compost, and grass clippings are all viable options for the mulch and will help the soil stay moist and healthy. Finally, it’s important to check that the mulch is not piled around the tree’s trunk; this can cause damage to the tree as it grows.
Winter Care
During the winter months, it is important to keep them protected from harsh weather conditions. To do this, it is wise to apply mulch around the tree’s base, this will help keep the roots insulated.
Additionally, it is recommended to water very sparingly and to check to see if the soil is draining. During the winter, fertilize the lavender trees every two weeks using nitrogen fertilizer.
Lastly, cover the tree if there is a risk of frost or extreme cold. This will prevent the lavender trees from becoming damaged during the cold winter months.
Pests and Diseases
When caring for lavender trees, it is important to be aware of common pests and diseases. Keep an eye out for spider mites, aphids, and other sucking insects that can damage the leaves and stems of the lavender tree.
If possible, remove these pests with insecticidal soap or physical removal. When it comes to diseases, gray mold, root rot, and powdery mildew can cause damage to the lavender tree. To prevent diseases, keep the plants in an area with ample sunlight and good airflow.
If diseases do appear, remove infected portions of the lavender trees and treat the affected areas with a fungicide or homemade mix of baking soda and water. Having professional help from arborists like Pelfrey Tree is also a great way to prevent diseases and keep pets away and prevent them from killing your lavender tree.
Know How to Care For Lavender Trees Today
Lavender trees are a beautiful addition to the garden, providing stunning foliage and fragrance. With proper care for lavender trees in terms of watering, sunlight, and pruning, your lavender tree can thrive for years to come.
Take the time to learn the basics, and your tree will thank you. So start caring for your lavender tree today!
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