How to Grow Lavender in Your Garden

Imagine stepping into your backyard and being greeted by the sweet, calming scent of lavender. The bees are buzzing, the sun is shining, and your garden is filled with gorgeous purple blooms.

Sounds dreamy, right? But let’s be real—gardening can feel overwhelming when you’re juggling a million other things (hello, kids, work, and that never-ending pile of laundry).

The good news? Lavender is one of the easiest, lowest-maintenance plants to grow. It thrives with minimal effort, smells divine, and has so many uses—from calming teas to DIY skincare. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to grow lavender successfully, even if your thumb is more brown than green. Let’s dig in (literally)!

If you are looking for our full tutorial on growing lavender, check out this article.

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This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website, or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please review our complete disclaimer here.

Why Grow Lavender in Your Garden?

As a lavender farmer and busy mom, I’m always looking for simple, natural ways to improve my family’s health and well-being. Lavender has become one of my go-to solutions. From calming stressful days to promoting better sleep, this amazing herb offers so many benefits that fit perfectly into my hectic routine. We create a variety of products with lavender essential oil and lavender-infused oil, available for purchase in our online Farm Store.

Before you go further, check out our COMPLETE step-by-step Farm Stand Toolkit to launch and scale your farm stand for more income.

Aesthetic Appeal

Lavender isn’t just practical—it’s downright stunning. The rich purple flowers contrast beautifully against the soft green foliage, creating a dreamy, cottage-garden vibe. Whether you plant it along pathways or in a dedicated herb garden, it adds instant charm.

Attracting Pollinators

Want to help save the bees? Lavender is a magnet for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. These little garden helpers make your entire yard healthier by pollinating other plants. It’s a win-win.

Health and Wellness Benefits

Feeling stressed? Take a deep breath—lavender’s calming scent is known to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Plus, you can use it in homemade teas, essential oils, and skin-soothing salves. (Keep scrolling for some additional health benefits of lavender.)

Low Maintenance

If you’ve ever killed a houseplant (or ten), don’t worry—lavender is tough. It thrives in poor soil, needs very little water, and can handle neglect better than most plants. Finally, a plant that doesn’t demand constant attention!

What Are The Health Benefits of Growing Lavender?

As always, please discuss any changes in your health care routine with your medical provider. Please review our disclaimer.

1. Stress Relief and Anxiety Reduction

One of the most well-known benefits of lavender is its calming properties. The International Clinical Journal of Pediatric Dentistry found that inhaling lavender essential oil or the topical application of lavender essential oil can significantly reduce anxiety levels for people of all ages before a dental procedure. We are always looking for healthier options for our family and will keep this in mind for the future!

Just a few drops in a diffuser or a quick whiff from the bottle can help to put you at ease. Hint: we love creating a stress relieving drink as a “lavender latte.”

2. Better Sleep

Because who wouldn’t love to have some dreamy nights? Yes, sign me up! We know that toddlers (or any children) running around can certainly add to sleep challenges. Guess what? Lavender might be your new best friend.

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Research shows that lavender may improve sleep quality and increase the duration of deep REM sleep. The same research indicates lavender is a great natural remedy for insomnia. Sprinkling a few drops of lavender oil on your pillow or using a lavender-infused sleep spray (from Abundantly Blessed Farm, of course) can help you drift off to dreamland more easily.

3. Mood Booster

Let lavender lift your spirits! The scent of lavender has been linked to increased serotonin levels, which may enhance mood and promote feelings of happiness. You don’t have to take it from us, but we tend to have better moods when we are enjoying some lavender lemon cookies made with culinary lavender!

4. Skin Healing

Lavender is an amazing herb with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties making it a great choice for treating minor burns, insect bites, and even acne. A few drops of diluted lavender essential oil, or infused as a lavender oil can soothe irritation and promote healing. Plus, it smells divine—who knew skincare could be so luxurious?

5. Digestive Aid

Feeling a little bloated after that big meal? A lavender tea made with culinary lavender might be the remedy you need. The calming effects of lavender help to relieve symptoms of indigestion and bloating. We have found that sipping on a warm cup of lavender chamomile tea can soothe the tummy of our little ones, too. This brings comfort to me as we are always looking for more natural options in our home.

6. Pain Relief

Have a headache? What about sore muscles? Lavender to the rescue! Studies have shown that lavender oil can help alleviate pain and reduce tension. We have found some headache and tension relief when adding a few drops of lavender essential oil to our bathwater. We love creating a soothing massage oil by mixing lavender essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil. We began crafting our Tallow Balm and Tallow Butter to provide pain relief for those stubborn period cramps.

Types of Lavender to Consider for Your Garden

English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

This variety is perfect for colder climates. It has a sweet scent, compact growth, and blooms in early summer. This is the variety you should look for if desiring culinary lavender. Check out this article for more ways to use culinary lavender.

French Lavender (Lavandula dentata)

If you live in a warmer climate, this one’s for you. It has frilly flowers and a strong scent, but it’s not as cold-hardy.

Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas)

This variety has funky-looking flowers with little “rabbit ear” petals on top. It’s drought-tolerant and loves the heat.

Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia)

This hybrid variety grows tall and produces tons of essential oil, making it great for homemade lavender products.

How to Choose the Right Location for Lavender

Sunlight Requirements

Lavender is a sun-worshipper. It needs at least six hours of full sun per day, so don’t stick it in that shady corner of your yard.

Soil Conditions

Lavender hates soggy feet. It needs well-draining soil, preferably slightly alkaline. If your soil is heavy clay, mix in some sand or gravel to improve drainage.

Spacing

Give your lavender room to breathe—space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and prevent mold or mildew.

Climate Considerations

Make sure you choose a variety that suits your climate. If you get harsh winters, go for English lavender. If you live in a hot, humid area, Spanish lavender might be a better bet.

Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Lavender

Preparing the Soil

Mix in sand, gravel, or compost to improve drainage. If your soil is too acidic, add a little lime to raise the pH.

Planting Lavender Seeds vs. Starter Plants

Seeds take longer and require patience (who has time for that?). Starter plants are easier and give you a head start.

Planting Depth and Spacing

Dig a hole just deep enough to cover the roots, then backfill with soil. Keep plants spaced properly to prevent overcrowding.

Watering After Planting

Water deeply after planting but don’t drown the poor thing. Once established, lavender prefers dry conditions.

Essential Care Tips for Growing Lavender

Watering

Too much water is the quickest way to kill lavender. Water once a week until established, then let nature do its thing.

Fertilizing

Skip the heavy fertilizers—lavender thrives in nutrient-poor soil. If needed, a light compost tea will do.

Pruning

Prune in early spring or after flowering to keep the plant from getting too woody and encourage fresh growth.

Mulching

Use gravel or sand instead of organic mulch to prevent excess moisture buildup. We are big fans of using gravel to help promote proper drainage!

Pest and Disease Control

Lavender is mostly pest-resistant, but keep an eye out for aphids or fungal diseases if conditions are too damp.

Harvesting Lavender

When to Harvest

Harvest when buds are just about to open for the strongest scent and oil content.

How to Harvest

Use sharp scissors or shears to cut just above a leaf node, encouraging new growth.

Drying Lavender

Bundle stems together and hang them upside down in a dry, dark place for a couple of weeks.

Using Harvested Lavender

Use it in homemade oils, soaps, teas, or even lavender-infused sugar for baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Growing Lavender

Overwatering: The #1 killer of lavender.
Poor Drainage: Fix this before planting!
Over-Fertilizing: Lavender doesn’t need much.
Improper Pruning: Trim back yearly to keep it healthy.
Choosing the Wrong Variety: Pick one that matches your climate.

Winter Care for Lavender

In Cold Climates: Mulch lightly with straw or bring potted lavender indoors.
Indoor Care: Place in a sunny window and don’t overwater.
Signs of Winter Damage: Brown or mushy stems indicate cold stress.

Check out this article for more details on winter care for lavender.

Companion Plants for Lavender

Complementary Plants

Rosemary, thyme, and sage thrive alongside lavender.

Plants to Avoid

Moisture-loving plants like mint or hostas aren’t good neighbors for drought-loving lavender.

FAQ Section

How often should I water lavender?

Once a week until established, then only when soil is dry.

What is the best time to plant lavender?

Spring or early fall when temperatures are mild.

Can lavender grow in pots?

Yes! Just make sure the pot has good drainage.

What type of soil does lavender need?

Well-draining, slightly alkaline soil with a sandy texture.

How long does it take for lavender to bloom?

Most varieties bloom within the first year if planted in spring.

Can I grow lavender indoors?

Yes, but it needs a lot of sunlight—place it near a bright window.

Conclusion

Growing lavender is one of the easiest ways to add beauty, fragrance, and wellness benefits to your home. It’s low-maintenance, pollinator-friendly, and incredibly rewarding. So go ahead—plant some lavender and enjoy a little slice of serenity in your backyard!