Renee's Garden Lavender Hidcote

Planting: In early spring, sow lavender seeds 1" apart in a container of seed starting mix, cover very lightly and keep at 65°F. Keep container moist but not soggy until seedlings slowly emerge over 14 - 25 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. If given excellent, drainage and good air circulation, Hardy Hidcote lavender is perennial to Zone 5. Plants flower lightly the first season and come into full bloom by their second summer. After blooming season, prune and shape the plants while cutting off spent flower stalks.