How to Sow Purple Rain Lavender Seeds
A hardy annual, which is native to the United Kingdom. Lavender is a long lasting plant, with a life expectancy of over 30 years. Commonly spotted in woodlands, lavender grows particularly well outdoors, considering the difficulty of germinating seeds. Producing a strong recognizable sweet lavender scent, which emanates from both the flowers and stems. Even the seeds smell like lavender. This attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Be sure to allow plenty of time, as lavender seeds are slow to germinate. They are considered to be one of the more difficult seeds to sow. However, once plants are established, they are tolerable to varying conditions.
How to Grow Purple Lavender Seeds
- The best type of soil to use for germination is a dry, sand like alkaline soil which is free draining. Adult plants are much more tolerable to garden soil, they can be transplanted later on.
- Before preparing any growing medium, refrigerate the seeds for 7 days. This can be either on some kitchen roll in a tub, or directly in the bag provided. This will bring the lavender seeds out of hibernation, by simulating the end of winter.
- Plant lavender seeds indoors, preferably using a propogator. Keep temperatures above 21 degrees, during the germination period. If planting outdoors, wait until 10-12 weeks before the last frosts.
- Cover seeds with approximately 1/14 inch of the recommended growing medium, allowing plenty of sunlight. Germination will take between 14-28 days. If outdoors, this will be much longer.
- Once the seedlings reach a few inches in height, transplant to their final growing destination. Liquid fertilizer will help lavender plants to grow, while also encouraging them to bloom.
