Like so many other Mediterranean plants, lavender is actually quite undemanding when it comes to care, but is even more sensitive when it comes to moisture. Too much moisture causes the dry-loving lavender to die quickly.
How often do you have to water lavender?
Lavender usually does not require additional watering in the garden, as the plant uses its long taproot to draw water from the deeper layers of the earth. Potted lavender, on the other hand, should be watered as soon as the top layer of soil has dried, although waterlogging should be avoided at all costs.
Do you have to water lavender in the garden?
Lavender comes from a region where it is naturally dry and barren. Over time, the plant has adapted to these conditions, for example by developing a very long taproot. Through this - and the otherwise well-developed root network - the lavender gets the water and nutrients it needs even from the deeper layers of the earth. Therefore, watering planted lavender is in principle not necessary - nor is fertilizing. Additional watering is only necessary in the garden when it is very hot and dry.
Water potted lavender properly
Pot lavender, on the other hand, has no chance of developing a taproot. That's why you have to water the plant from time to time - but carefully. You only need to water the lavender when the top layer of soil in the pot has dried out. Also, only water in such a way that no water runs into the saucer. By the way, you should always remove water from the saucer immediately, as lavender does not tolerate wet feet. If the roots are permanently in water or too moist, then rot will set in. It is best to water early in the morning so that the water can evaporate during the day. You can use tap water without worry, as lavender requires a lot of lime.
Excess irrigation water must be able to drain away
Waterlogging must be avoided at all costs as it causes the plant to die. That's why you should ensure optimal pot drainage for potted lavender.
- Choose a sufficiently deep pot made of wood, clay or another natural material.
- This must have a drainage hole at the bottom.
- First fill a several centimeter thick layer of drainage material (€19.00 on Amazon) (e.g. expanded clay) into the pot, then add the soil on top.
Tips & Tricks
Do not mulch lavender, as the material also retains moisture.
