At a Glance
The witching blooms of lavender , with their trance fragrance and soothing properties , have captivated gardeners for centuries . In Michigan , with its unparalleled climate and soil conditions , planting lavendercan be a rewarding experience , tot beauty and placidity to youroutdoor blank space . This comprehensive scout will provide you with all the of the essence knowledge and whole step - by - footprint instructionsto successfully flora lavender in Michigan .
Choosing the Right Lavender Varieties
Michigan ’s climate is well suited for cold - unfearing lavender miscellanea . Some popular choices include :
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
Lavender thrives in well - drained soilwith a pH between 6.5 and 7.5 . take asunny locationthat receives at least six minute of direct sunlight per daylight . Amend the soil withorganic matter , such as compost or manure , to ameliorate drain and fertility . Avoid set inareas proneto waterlogging .
Planting Time and Spacing
The best time toplant lavenderin Michigan is in the spring or dip , when temperatures are temperate . Space flora 18 - 24 inches apart to reserve for proper airwave circulation and forestall overcrowding . get the picture holes deep enough to conciliate the root ball .
Planting Instructions
1 . Remove the Plant from Its Container : Gently removethelavender plantfrom its container and loosen any tangled roots.2 . Prepare theRoot Ball : If the ascendant are tightly bind , nock the sides of theroot ball verticallyto encourage root growth.3 . Place in the Hole : Position the plant in the hole and backfill with the amended soil.4 . tauten the Soil : lightly pressdown on the land around the plant to insure it.5 . Water Thoroughly : Water theplant deeplyafter planting to settle the soil and raise root growing .
Watering and Fertilizing
Lavender is drouth - tolerant , butregular wateringduringdry spellsis essential for good for you outgrowth . H2O profoundly and infrequently , give up the soil to dry out out between waterings . fecundate lavender slenderly in the saltation with a balanced , low - nitrogen plant food . quash over - fertilizing , as it canpromote unreasonable growthand subjugate flowering .
Mulching and Pruning
mulch around lavender works helps retain moisture , suppress weeds , and govern grunge temperature . Useorganic mulch , such asshredded barkor stubble . Prune lavender after flower to encourage new growth andprevent legginess . Remove spent heyday spikes and trim back stem by about one - third .
Pests and Diseases
Lavender is comparatively pest - tolerant , but it can be susceptible to aphids , wanderer mite , and origin rot . admonisher flora regularly for pests andtreat promptlywith appropriate insecticide or fungicides . practise good garden hygiene by removing dead leaf and rubble .
Harvesting and Drying Lavender
Lavender flowers can be harvested when they arefully open , usually in mid - summertime . Cut the bloom spike withsharp shearsand bundle them together . Hang thebundles upsidedown in a well - ventilated areato dry . Once the flowers arecompletely dry , disinvest them from the prow and store them inairtight containersfor future use .
The Many Uses of Lavender
Lavender is aversatile plantwith numerous use of goods and services , including :
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : Can Igrow lavenderin Michigan without full sun?A : Whilelavender favour full sun , it cantolerate partial shade , receive at least four hours ofdirect sunlightper 24-hour interval . Q : How often should I irrigate lavender?A : Water lavender deeplyand infrequently , allow the dirt to dry out out between waterings . body of water more frequently during hot , dry period . Q : Islavender safefor pets?A : While lavender isgenerally considered safefor pet , turgid sum of money can be toxic . Supervise pets around lilac-colored works andavoid givingthem prominent venereal disease of lavender all-important oils .
