How to Fertilize Lavender
The fragrance of the lavender herb is unmistakable to most. The plant and its oil have multiple uses; it can be used as a sleep aid and the oil is frequently added to bath products such as soap and shampoos. Lavender features purple, pink, mauve or white flowers on long, thin, green stems and thrives in dry, hot climates where it can receive full sun. These drought-resistant plants often do not require fertilizer depending on the type of soil it is planted in, but can benefit from organic fertilizers. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Soil test kit
- Lime fertilizer
- Chicken manure (optional)
- Gravel mulch mixture (optional)
Instructions
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Ensure the soil you wish to plant your lavender in drains properly, as soil that does not drain well will harm, if not destroy, lavender plants. Lavender cannot withstand wet soil, particularly in the winter, which means well-draining soil is even more important in colder weather.
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Use a soil test kit to test your soil for lime, an organic fertilizer. If the soil has a high lime content you will not need additional lime fertilizer. Apply lime fertilizer at the beginning of growing season if your soil has a pH below 7.0 only, as lavender prefers "lean" soil. A pH level that is neutral or or slightly above neutral is ideal for lavender plants.
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Work chicken manure compost into the soil surrounding the plants in the fall. Note that chicken manure is high in nitrogen and should only be used around older plants to encourage growth and will affect oil quality.
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Mulch lavender beds using gravel mulch only, as traditional mulches hold excessive moisture around the plants. Use a mulch of 50 percent sand and 50 percent limestone for best results, if needed.
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Tips & Warnings
Sheep, rabbit and llama manure may also be used in lieu of chicken manure.
References
Resources
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