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Lavender Propagation
Propagation
Lavender should always be propagated from cuttings to maintain the true characteristics of a particular cultivar. Lavender grown from seed will not be consistent. Lavandins (Lavandula x intermedia) such as Grosso are sterile and cannot be propagated from seed Some lavender cultivars are easy to root and others are not. Semi-hardwood cuttings can be taken in Spring or Fall (and, if source plant is properly managed can be taken nearly year-round). Softwood cuttings may be taken in Spring.
Lavender tissue culture is relatively easy, but beyond the means & needs of most growers Semi-hardwood cuttings
Propagation
Mix 50% potting soil and 50% fine perlite for new cuttings to promote good drainage.
Propagation
Dip into rooting hormone Bottom heat, misting, cool ambient temps, will speed rooting
Depending on cultivar & condition, rooting will usually take between 3 and 6 weeks
But, over-watering cuttings and young plants causes plant stress and can lead to various disease problems. You must also be sure to use a very light, porous planting mix. In some cases of you could lose your entire crop. Therefore, you must be careful not to over-water. Plants should be kept moist, but not saturated.
Healthy Plants Sick Plants
Humidity and air circulation are very important when young plants are being grown out in the greenhouse
Poor air circulation and/or high humidity leads to fungal diseases
B Horizon
Subsoil
C Horizon Substratum
Schnorbush Loam
north-facing mid-slopes (that would be south facing for us) light, well-drained soils with low organic matter high stone/gravel content low active calcium stable soil structure without compaction low available phosphorus medium available magnesium low to medium available potassium
In Heavy or Poorly Drained Soils it is a Good Idea to Plant Lavender into Berms/Raised Beds
Planting Lavender
Mix 50% bone-meal and 50% composted chicken manure add 1-2 cups
Plant Spacing
4 - 7 ft. between rows 5 - 6 feet most common 2 - 4 ft. between plants 36 - 42 most common 2,000 - 4,000 plants per acre -- 2,500 is the average (3 x 6 spacing will
yield 2,400 to 2,500 plants per acre)
Adequate spacing is necessary so plants get needed sunlight, air movement, and for ease of weeding, harvest, etc.
Establishing Plants
Harden plants before planting in field Fall planting best in mild climates*with bigger plants (not plugs) Spring planting is OK, and is often the best option in areas with harsh winters** Clip flower buds for first 2 years to get plants well established
*Fall establishment is often better because it is often the slower season, and because roots can get established and give plants a headstart for the next Spring **Better quality plants are often more available in Spring, with a bigger selection available Unless you know what youre doing and have the time to carefully monitor and care for them, it is best not to plant plugs directly to the field
Clip Flower Buds for the First Year,, and Possibly even Two Years!
Clip Flower Buds for the First Year,, and Possibly even Two Years!
Cost of plants can run from $2,000 to $12,000 per acre, depending on size of plants
72 Count Plugs
3 Pot
2 Pot
2 Pot
Plug
Irrigation
Drip irrigation is recommended Irrigation is Critical in the 1st year, and often essential in the 2nd year Irrigation may increase production in mature plantings In dry climates, and/or with fast draining soils, irrigation will be necessary, even for mature plants Overhead sprinklers are suitable for plants early in the season, but once stems have elongated and flower heads are becoming developed, sprinklers may cause plant and/or flower damage. There is also the risk of bacterial and fungal diseases, particularly in more humid conditions. Although lavender is a drought tolerant plant, it often benefits from irrigation, especially in light soils and during dry years but, be careful not to over water! Irrigation after harvest can stimulate added shoots for next years crop The amount you will need to irrigate will depend greatly on your soil type, and on your local climate. I.e., hot, dry areas with sandy soil will irrigate FAR more than cooler, rainier areas with heavier soils.