Although
it is unclear where lavender originated (some
say Persia, Egypt, Italy, Greece and Spain) it grows
wild in the chalky dry ravines of the French Sea Alps
where the conditions may be harsh. Most of the lavender
available today has adapted to withstand a lot of variations
in weather. "Angustifolia" , "Grosso" and "Provence" in
particular will tolerate extremes such as hot, dry, summers
and very cold winters as long as the roots don't stay
wet for extended periods of time.
A
hardy perennial herb, lavender produces dozens of fragrant
blossoms on a single plant in late spring and summer.
As a bonus, depending on growing conditions, a second,
less abundant bloom may take place in the fall. If
well maintained, plants should flourish for more than
a decade. The lower camphor and resin content of L
angustifolia, officianalis , or "Vera" and L x intermedia
Provence make them the most appealing culinary-grade
lavenders. 
A
healthy lavender plant has deep spreading roots. The optimal
growing medium is sandy loam with lots of calcium. Most
commercial farmers add some form of calcium around the
plants each fall. For heavy clay soil, the remedy is to
dig down at least 2 feet and amend with well-decomposed
organic matter.
Avoid
pig and chicken manure, which may burn plants. Another
trick is to plant on mounds to increase drainage. Although
planting directly in soil is preferable, most lavender
will do well in deep, wide pots, though the lifespan and
amount of foliage may be reduced. While lavender is considered
drought-tolerant, until established after several months,
the plants will need a little water every day.
Drip
irrigation is preferable because overhead sprinkling can
promote fungal disease. Another key to maintaining healthy
vigorous plants is proper pruning. Until the plant is about
9 months old, pinch off all emerging flowers to put energy
into the root system. Each year for the life of the plant
and preferably after flowering, cut back 1/3 to 1/2 half
the plant, just above where the wood begins. It seems drastic
but is critical. So is keeping weeds at a minimum.
While
lavender is very appealing to humans, neither deer nor
moles and voles seem to bother with it. Rabbits, however,
will dig up small plants to nibble the roots. Lavender
is also generally disease resistant. Always prune or harvest
plants with sterilized tools to avoid contamination.
Bees
are attracted in large numbers by the fragrant flowers
and help in pollination. Many bee keepers will place hives
in a lavender field to produce wonderful tasting honey
which is highly prized for its delicate flavor. And don't
worry about ladybugs nesting in the lavender branches,
they are beneficial in keeping out other insects such as
aphids which may spread disease from other plants in nearby
gardens.
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