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By deadheading regularly, you can extend the blooming period and keep your lavender looking fresh and vibrant throughout the season.
3. Fertilize for Vibrant Blooms
After blooming, lavender benefits from a light feeding to replenish nutrients. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, applying it at the base of the plant. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as lavender prefers lean soil conditions. A general guideline is to use about one tablespoon of fertilizer per plant.
This feeding helps support the plant’s recovery from blooming and prepares it for the next growth cycle, ensuring vibrant blooms in the future.
4. Water Wisely
Lavender is drought-tolerant, but it still requires regular watering, especially after blooming. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Aim to water in the morning to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Ensure the soil drains well, as lavender does not tolerate soggy conditions. Consider using a moisture meter to check soil moisture levels before watering.
5. Check for Pests and Diseases
After blooming, inspect your lavender plants for signs of pests such as aphids or spider mites. Look for discolored or distorted leaves, which can indicate an infestation. If you find pests, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil, following the product instructions.
Also, check for signs of fungal diseases like root rot or powdery mildew. Ensure good air circulation around the plants and remove any affected foliage to prevent the spread of disease.
6. Mulch to Retain Moisture
Applying a layer of mulch around your lavender plants helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Use organic mulch such as shredded bark or straw, applying a layer about 2 inches thick. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the base of the plant to prevent rot.
Mulching also helps moderate soil temperature, protecting the roots from extreme heat or cold.
7. Harvest for Culinary Uses
Lavender is not only beautiful but also edible. Harvest the flowers when they are in full bloom for the best flavor. Cut the stems early in the morning after the dew has dried but before the sun is too hot.
Use the harvested lavender in culinary dishes, teas, or to make lavender-infused sugar. Store the dried flowers in an airtight container to preserve their fragrance and flavor.
8. Create Lavender Sachets
After harvesting, you can use the dried lavender to create sachets. These sachets are perfect for placing in drawers or closets to impart a pleasant fragrance. Simply fill small fabric bags with dried lavender flowers and sew or tie them closed.
Lavender sachets also make thoughtful gifts, bringing a touch of your garden into the homes of friends and family.
9. Propagate New Plants
Lavender is easy to propagate from cuttings, allowing you to expand your garden or share plants with others. Take cuttings from non-flowering stems, about 4-6 inches long. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix and keep them in a warm, sheltered location. Water sparingly until roots develop, then transplant to their permanent location.
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