How to Grow Lavender from Seed: A Step-by-Step Guide

Lavender, with its soothing fragrance and vibrant purple blooms, is among the most cherished herbs for gardens around the world. While many gardeners propagate lavender from cuttings, growing it from seed is an economically savvy and rewarding journey that allows you to explore unique varieties not always available in nurseries. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step you need to take to grow flourishing lavender from seed, from seed prep and sowing to transplanting and ongoing care.

Why Grow Lavender from Seed?

Many gardeners choose to start lavender from nursery plants or cuttings, primarily due to the plant’s slow and sometimes tricky germination. However, by going the seed route, you unlock:

• Cost Savings: One packet of seeds yields multiple plants at a fraction of the price of purchased starts.
• Varietal Diversity: Seeds let you choose from a broader selection of lavender types, including heirloom and rare cultivars.
• Stronger Plants: Seed-grown lavenders often adapt better to your local growing conditions.

Understanding Lavender: Botanical Basics

Lavender (Lavandula) is a perennial herb in the mint family, closely related to rosemary and sage. Its Mediterranean origins mean it thrives in hot, dry, and sunny conditions. The most popular varieties grown from seed include English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and its cultivars such as ‘Munstead’ and ‘Hidcote’.

7 Steps to Grow Lavender from Seed

Though growing lavender from seed isn’t difficult, it does require patience and a bit of know-how. Below are the seven critical steps to ensure success from start to fragrant finish.

1. Gather Materials and Select the Right Variety

• Lavender seeds: Opt for fresh seeds from a reputable source to boost germination rates.
• Seed trays or cell packs for starting seeds.
• Seed starting mix: Well-draining and sterile; avoid heavy or fertilizer-rich mixes.
• Vermiculite or fine sand for surface dusting.
• Grow light or sunny window for ample light during germination.
• Ziploc bag and paper plate/towel for stratification (optional, but highly recommended).
• Spray bottle for gentle watering.

2. Cold Stratify Lavender Seeds

Lavender seeds have a naturally low germination rate unless they receive a period of cold, mimicking winter. This process is called cold stratification and is crucial for breaking seed dormancy:

1. Moisten a paper towel and lay it flat on a plate.
2. Scatter lavender seeds evenly on the towel, ensuring they don’t clump together.
3. Cover with another moist towel, and place the plate inside a Ziploc bag.
4. Seal and place in the refrigerator for 30-40 days. Check occasionally to keep towels damp (not soaking).

This simulates the cold, damp winter conditions that lavender seeds require to awaken and germinate effectively. If you skip this step, expect lower germination—sometimes as low as 20–30% compared to 70–80% with stratification.

3. Prepare Trays and Plant Seeds Shallowly

Once stratification ends, it’s time to plant:

• Fill cell trays or small pots with seed starting mix.
• Sow 1–2 seeds per cell on the surface. Lavender needs light to germinate, so do not bury seeds deeply.
• Gently press seeds onto the soil surface. Lightly dust with a thin layer (no more than 1/8 inch) of vermiculite, fine sand, or soil—just enough to hold seeds in place without blocking light.

4. Provide Light, Warmth, and Moisture

• Place trays in a bright spot with at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight or under a grow light.
• Use a seedling heat mat to maintain soil temperatures between 65–70°F (18–21°C); warmth encourages faster germination.
• Water gently using a spray bottle to avoid washing seeds away. Keep the soil slightly moist, but never soggy.

5. Germination: Patience Is Key

Lavender germination is notably slow and sometimes erratic. Germination can take anywhere from 14 to 28 days (sometimes longer) depending on variety and conditions. Be patient and resist the urge to overwater.

6. Transplanting Seedlings

When seedlings have developed several sets of true leaves and are big enough to handle:

• Gently remove seedlings from trays, disturbing roots as little as possible.
• Transplant into larger pots or outdoors into well-prepared garden beds with excellent drainage and full sun.
• Space plants 12–18 inches apart to provide airflow and room to grow.

7. Ongoing Care for Young Lavender Plants

• Watering: Water young plants sparingly. Once established, lavender prefers to dry out between waterings.
• Sunlight: Lavender thrives in full sun with at least 6 hours daily.
• Soil: Provide sandy, well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.5–7.5).
• Fertilizer: Lavender is not a heavy feeder; too much fertilizer reduces fragrance and flowering.

Tips for Success: Maximizing Lavender Seed Germination

• Always stratify seeds for at least a month for best results.
• Plant shallowly and provide bright light during germination.
• Use new, high-quality seeds and avoid old seed stock.
• Don’t overwater—lavender dislikes wet feet!
• Be patient; some seeds may germinate later than others.

Varieties of Lavender Grown from Seed

Common Problems and Solutions

• Poor Germination: Ensure stratification, light exposure, and avoid old seeds.
• Dampening Off: Use sterile mix, avoid overwatering, and ensure good air flow.
• Seedlings stunted or yellow: Check for poor drainage, overwatering, or too little light.

Lavender Seed FAQ

Q: Why won’t my lavender seeds germinate?

A: Lavender seeds often need cold stratification and light to trigger germination. Ensure seeds haven’t expired, provide light, and avoid burying them too deep.

Q: How long does it take for lavender to grow from seed to bloom?

A: Seed to flower usually takes 12–18 months. Patience is rewarded with robust, garden-adapted plants.

Q: When should I start lavender seeds indoors?

A: Start lavenders indoors 12–16 weeks before your last frost date for the best transplant size by spring.

Q: Can I collect my own lavender seeds?

A: Yes. Once flowers are spent and dry, shake seeds from the pods and store in a cool, dry place for future sowing.

Q: How do I care for lavender seedlings after transplanting?

A: Transition slowly to outdoor conditions (hardening off), plant in well-drained soil in full sun, and water gently until established. Reduce watering as plants mature.

Final Thoughts

Though growing lavender from seed may require more patience and planning than buying starter plants, the payoff—lush, fragrant blooms, healthy plants, and the satisfaction of nurturing life from the tiniest seeds—is well worth the effort. With the right preparation and care, your lavender seedlings will reward you with their beauty and soothing aroma for years to come.

Author

Shinta

 

Shinta is a biotechnologist turned writer. She holds a master's degree in Biotechnology from Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences and a PG Diploma in cellular and molecular diagnostics from Manipal University. Shinta realised her love for content while working as an editor for a scientific journal.

Read full bio of Shinta