Which Lavender Variety Blooms The Longest?

Lavender (Lavandula) is amazing for any gardening space. It's elegant, low-maintenance, versatile enough for indoor containers or outdoor lawn borders, and attracts a host of pollinators. With so many creative ways to incorporate lavender into a landscape, it's no wonder gardeners want their heavenly fragrance and beauty to last as long as possible. If you're looking for a variety that can last, you should consider French lavender (Lavandula dentata). Using techniques like proper watering and deadheading, you will be able to get it to bloom from spring all the way to fall. In fact, if you happen to be in a region that is warm enough, this lavender variety can bless you with its blooms almost all year round.

French lavender, named for its serrated or "toothed" foliage, features tall spikes, beautiful purple blossoms, and a lighter, more herbal fragrance when compared to its Spanish and English cousins. There are plenty of French lavender cultivars that can offer long-lasting blooms that provide both visual beauty and fragrance. For instance, the 'Phenomenal' cultivar is a great variety for growing in containers and will not only add unprecedented charm to your patio but also repel pests while attracting pollinators. On the other hand, if you like adding some quirk to your gardening repertoire, the 'Sensational' cultivar is ready to constantly overwhelm your senses with its unconventionally large stalks and blooms. Some varieties of lavender can even thrive in conditions that would normally kill lawns.

How to grow French lavender and keep them blooming for long

French lavender can survive through USDA Hardiness Zones 8 to 11 and likes slightly alkaline soil with a pH hovering between 6.5 to 8. It is extremely heat-tolerant and thrives in dry, warm climates, but can struggle in areas with freezing temperatures. For optimum growth, plant the seeds at least 2 to 3 feet apart from each other in an area that receives at least six to eight hours of sunlight.

Overwatering and fertilizing your soil are some of the common mistakes that can prevent lavender from flowering. Since these plants are highly susceptible to root rot, try to keep them away from dense, clay soil that doesn't drain well, and only water them if there is a prolonged drought in your area. Light pruning helps the plant keep its shape, but make sure you don't cut the leaves down too far, otherwise they will find it difficult to regenerate.

While French lavenders are naturally great at rewarding you with everlasting blooms, proper deadheading can encourage even more flowers. This technique allows the plant to divert its energy from keeping up with old flowers to making new ones. You can begin deadheading as soon as the flowers start to fade. Cut just below the spent flower stalk, then wait for new growth and blooms to emerge later in the season.

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