Hello, I wanted to start growing lavender because I like the smell and the essential oils + diffuser. But, I have not much experience with this kind of flowers and I want to grow it on a "big scale". So, there are a lot of different varieties. Can someone recommend a guide/book or something? I am kind of a noobie regarding gardening. So it should be really really simple.
Hi Julia, Once you have selected the sort(s) that you want to grow, choose a very sunny place. The lavender does best in poor, well drained soil that is calcium - rich. You can buy calcium for soil from most garden centre's. Once the soil is ready, you can plant your plant(s). Giving them a little water in the beginning, after that I would never water them again and never give them manure. You can work-in some calcium every couple of years around the base of the plant. I do not know of any books written in English for this plant, but i am sure that other folks on here will. I wish you all the best of luck. BTW--it would help knowing whereabouts you live, as the advice would depend upon your "zone".
Where you live will determine to a large degree how well Lavender will grow for you. It is native to the Mediterranean region, likes hot, dry conditions. Humidity and frequent rain will kill it pretty quickly.
Julia, lavender is delightful, but as you mentioned, there are a lot of different varieties. Some lavenders do well in warmer climates, others do not. Water requirements vary. Could you fill in a few details, please. Where are you and what is your growing zone? Also, "on a big scale" needs clarification. There is a place near here that has acres of lavender, and a local gardener has eight plants. What is your definition of "big scale"? Guide books have general information and are rarely written for a specific area. I'd suggest going to a local nursery and reading the tags on the lavender plants. Also, do you plan to start with seedlings from a supplier, or from seed? Those are two different ball games!
I have a big bunch of lavender that grows quite well out front here. I pretty much ignore it and chop it down quite a bit late fall.
@JuliaSpirit i had 3 lavender plants down my back garden which kept in balls the same plant as Islandlife and they got removed but i still have a large one on the front garden. Are you in the UK? if you don't mind me asking
