Why Propagate Lavender?
Personally I don’t think it is even possible to have too many lavender plants – my husband on the other hand might disagree. If you’re a lavender enthusiast and want to expand your collection, or replace plants in the future, propagation is an effective method to grow more of it. Lavender propagation involves taking a cutting from a healthy and established plant and using it to grow a new one. Here are the benefits of propagating lavender:
- Cost-effective: Propagation is a cost-effective way to grow more lavender plants without having to purchase new ones.
- Quality control: By propagating your own plants, you have more control over the quality and health of the plants.
- Sustainability: Propagating lavender from an established plant is a sustainable way to grow more of it without relying on external sources.
Step 1: Taking a Cutting
Start by selecting a non-flowering stem from a healthy and established lavender plant. Cut a stem that is about 4-6 inches long using a sterilized pair of sharp scissors.
Step 2: Preparing the Cutting
After obtaining the cutting, remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem, leaving a few at the top. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder, such as this one from Amazon (affiliate link), to stimulate root growth.
Step 3: Planting the Cutting
Fill a small pot with a well-draining potting mix, then make a hole in the center of the soil and insert the cutting. Firmly press the soil around the cutting to secure it in place.
Step 4: Watering the Cutting
Thoroughly water the cutting, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Place the pot in a sheltered and bright spot, but away from direct sunlight.
Step 5: Caring for the Cutting
Ensure that the soil remains moist, but not waterlogged, and protect the cutting from harsh weather conditions. You can cover the pot with a plastic bag or a cloche to create a humid environment for the cutting to root.
Step 6: Transplanting the Cutting
After the roots have grown to be at least 1-2 inches long, transplant the cutting into a larger pot or into the ground. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil and plant the lavender at the same depth as it was in the pot.
Step 7: Caring for the New Plant
Regularly water the new plant, but be cautious not to overwater. Prune the plant regularly to promote bushy growth and fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer once a year.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Thriving Lavender Plant
With proper care, your propagated lavender plant will thrive and add a lovely fragrance to your garden. Lavender is not only beautiful but also versatile, as its fragrant blooms can be used in crafts, culinary dishes, and natural remedies. Propagating lavender is a simple and enjoyable way to expand your collection of this wonderful plant. By following these easy steps, you’ll have a beautiful and fragrant lavender plant in no time. If you need rooting hormone powder, you can find it here.
