The Lavender Pruning Tip That Helps Your Plant Survive The Long Winter

If winter has you worried about your lavender (Lavandula spp.), a smart fall trim is your best defense. Cold winds and heavy snow can snap or bend stems in no time, but shaping the shrub now makes a big difference. Trim the sides just enough to give it a soft, rounded, almost conical silhouette. That shape keeps snow from piling on top, shields fragile stems from winter winds, and stops branches from rubbing together. Nothing says winter damage like a plant that's already beaten up before the cold even hits.

The trick is knowing when to prune. Hitting those soft new shoots too early is one of the lavender pruning mistakes that can slow, or even stop, growth since tender stems are easy prey for frost and wind. Stick to dead stems and spent flower heads instead; they can be safely removed without stressing the plant. Taking the time to remove dead stems and spent flower heads while shaping the shrub helps it withstand snow, wind, and cold temperatures. A well-shaped lavender sets the stage for spring growth and ensures your lavender plants will be bursting with more blooms and color.

Start by snipping off dead stems and spent flower heads, keeping your cuts tidy and clean. For taller varieties, trim back about 6 to 12 inches; for lower-growing types, 2 to 4 inches is plenty. Aim for a soft, slightly rounded or gentle conical shape. This helps the lavender shrug off snow and winter winds. Avoid cutting into any soft new shoots; tender growth is an easy target for frost. Clear away debris from the base to prevent disease, and keep your pruners sharp so every cut is clean. A smart, targeted trim gives your lavender the best chance to survive the cold and come back strong.

For best overall health and longevity and to set your lavender up for the winter, these fragrant perennials love full sun; six hours or more a day is ideal, but a little shade won't hurt. Plant in early to mid-spring in well-draining soil; too much water can stress the roots and invite leaf diseases, especially once cold weather sets in. Containers need plenty of drainage holes and a sandy or loamy mix to keep roots slightly dry, which encourages sturdier, more fragrant foliage. Space garden-planted lavender at least a foot apart to keep air moving and prevent fungus. In colder zones, a stone wall can act as a windbreak, or a thin layer of mulch after the ground freezes will help the plant ride out winter.

Lavender and its hybrids are generally hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9 and fit right in anywhere from an English border to a pollinator patch or rock garden. Fertilizer isn't really its thing; a light sprinkle of compost at planting is plenty, since too many nutrients push out tender growth that won't survive cold weather. With a little attention now, your lavender will thrive, ready to lend its fragrant blooms for making essential oil to use in your home or to spice up your favorite dishes.