Renee's Garden Lavender, Fernleaf

Planting: In early spring, sow lavender seeds 1" apart in a container of seed starting mix. Cover very lightly and keep at 60 - 70°F. Keep evenly moist but not soggy until seedlings slowly emerge over 7 - 14 days, providing a good light source. When seedlings have several sets of leaves, transplant 2" apart into deeper containers. Plant outside in a well-drained sunny spot when plants are 2 - 3" tall after gradually acclimating to outdoor conditions.

Growing: Because perennial lavender's small seeds germinate slowly and unevenly, we strongly recommend starting them indoors so you can tend them carefully. After seedlings are well established, plant them out in a sunny spot with excellent drainage and good air circulation or in big, well-drained pots. Plants flower lightly the first season and come into full bloom in their second summer. After blooming season, prune and shape the plants while cutting off spent flower stalks. If their requirements are met, these sturdy plants will take more humidity than other lavenders. Fernleaf plants are beacons for summer butterflies all summer long.