Learning to grow lavender in the desert has come as a result of trial, error, and research. After throwing away many dead plants, I have finally discovered how to successfully grow these plants in this dry, hot, environment.
1st : Not all lavender are created equal. There are some varieties that are more suitable to hot and humid climates versus the hot and dry that is common in the Desert Southwest. I have had the best luck with Goodwin Creek Lavender, French Lavender, Spanish Lavender, Fern Leaf Lavender and new this year is Sweet Lavender
2nd: The best time to plant Lavender is March, unless Winter temperatures and freezes typically extend beyond that date.
3rd: Do not overhead water or over water lavender plants. I find Spanish Lavender to be most temperamental in terms of watering and Goodwin Creek Lavender by far the most drought tolerant.
4th: Watch new plants very carefully. They will require a little more water while establishing, but once established are very drought tolerant.
5th: Make sure the planting hole drains well. Lavender do not like wet roots...Because my soil is sandy, once all of the rocks and boulders were removed, drainage was less of an issue.
6th: Lavender requires 6 or more hours of sun daily.
Sources and and information regarding lavender.
- All About Lavender
- Goodwin Creek Lavender
- Joy Creek Nursery
- Growing Lavender in the Nevada Desert
Bolero
