Lavender Plants in Indiana

Lavender has long been used in bath water.

The right kind of lavender does well in Indiana, although a severe winter may overwhelm the plant. The Indiana Gardener's Guide recommends Lavender Lady, Hidcoat. Albe or Munstead as the best varieties for Indiana.

Planting

Lavender is hard to germinate from seeds and does better when transplanted as young plants. An all-purpose fertilizer is used in the spring.

Location

Plant lavender in a sandy, well-drained site that receives full sun. Do not mulch with organic material, as lavender does not do well in moist areas, and the mulch may retain too much water. Lavender prefers slightly alkaline soil with a pH of 7 to 8.

Watering

Plant lavender in the spring in Indiana, and water it in well until the roots are established. After the first year, the plants tolerate drought.

Pruning

Pruning a lavender plant promotes new growth and flowers, especially in the first year. Keeping good separation between the lavender plants gives the roots room to grow, making a healthier plant.

References

• "Indiana Gardener's Guide"; Joellen Sharp, et al.; 2004
• WillowField Lavender: Growing Lavender