Watering plants is a simple process that can easily be done too much or too little. The amount of water a plant needs depends on many factors, such as the type of plant, the size of the plant, the weather, and the time of year.
Lavender plants are drought-tolerant and do not need a lot of water to survive. In fact, too much water can actually be harmful to lavender plants and cause them to become root-bound or even die.
If you’re a gardener like me, it’s natural to worry about water and whether or not our plants are getting enough. Here in Southern California, we’ve been in a drought for several years now and water is a precious commodity.
So, how often should you water lavender plants? The answer may surprise you…
Lavender plants like to be on the dry side and only need to be watered about once a week or even less often in cooler weather. When watering lavender plants, be sure to soak the roots thoroughly and then allow the plant to dry out completely before watering again.
Over-watering is one of the most common mistakes made with lavender plants. If you think your plant may be getting too much water, simply reduce the frequency of watering or allow the plant to dry out completely between waterings.
How often should lavender plants be watered during drought?
All plants need water during drought conditions, but how often to water lavender during drought depends on the type of lavender. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is more drought tolerant than French lavender (Lavandula stoechas), so it needs less watering.
However, both types of lavender will appreciate being watered deeply and infrequently during drought conditions. Typically, lavender should be watered every 7-10 days during drought conditions. However, you will need to water more frequently if the weather is hot and dry.
Lavender is a drought-tolerant plant, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t need any water during dry conditions. Water your lavender plants every 7-10 days during periods of drought. If the weather is especially hot and dry, you may need to water more frequently.
Typically, though, once a week should be sufficient. Remember to water deeply, rather than just giving the plants a quick drink. This will help encourage deep roots, which will make the plants more drought-tolerant in the long run.
What should lavender plants do on rainy days?
Lavender plants should be protected from the rain, especially if the rain is heavy. Too much moisture can cause the plant to rot. If possible, move the lavender plant to a covered area or bring it inside during periods of heavy rain.
If the plant must stay outside, try to elevate it so that the rain does not sit on the leaves and cause them to rot. Lavender plants are also susceptible to fungal diseases, so it is important to keep them as dry as possible.
If you notice that the rain is lasting longer than expected, you may need to give your lavender plant some extra attention. Check the leaves for any signs of water damage and remove any that are starting to rot. It is also a good idea to check the soil around the plant to make sure that it is not getting too soggy. If the soil is too wet, consider moving the plant to a drier location.
How often should new lavender plants be watered?
New lavender plants should be extra careful with watering. Too much and the plant will suffocate, too little and the plant will dry out. The best way to water a new lavender plant is to stick your finger in the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil is dry, give the plant a good thorough watering.
If the soil is damp, wait a few days and check again. Once the plant is established, it will need to be watered about once a week. During periods of extreme heat, the plant may need to be watered more frequently.
Avoid watering new lavender plants if your area has cloudy weather. The plant will be getting the moisture it needs from the air and too much water can actually do more harm than good. If your plant is wilting, that’s a sure sign that it needs to be watered.
How Often to Water Potted Lavender
It is important to water potted lavender plants more than necessary, as they are susceptible to drought. Water the plants when the top 2-3 inches of potting mix feels dry. Allow the water to seep through the drainage holes and empty out any water that remains in the saucer after 10 minutes. In addition, misting the leaves with water can help raise humidity levels and promote growth.
Lavender grown in pots will need to be watered more frequently than those planted in the ground. This is because the roots are confined to a smaller space and the potting mix dries out faster. During hot, dry weather, you may need to water your lavender plants every day or even twice a day.
If you live in a hot, dry climate, it’s best to grow lavender in pots so you can move them into the shade or indoors during the hottest months. This will help prevent the roots from drying out and the plant from wilting.
When watering potted lavender, always use lukewarm water. Cold water can shock the roots and damage the plant. Also, be sure to water the base of the plant and not just the leaves. Wetting the leaves can encourage fungal growth and make the plant more susceptible to diseases.
How Often to Water Indoor Lavender
Growing lavender plants indoors can be a challenge, as they require a lot of light and the correct amount of water. The soil should be allowed to dry out in between watering, and you should only water your lavender plants when the leaves start to droop. Over-watering is one of the most common mistakes made when growing lavender indoors.
Lavender plants are drought tolerant, so they don’t need to be watered very often. In general, indoor lavender plants should be watered about once a week. However, you may need to water more or less frequently depending on the plant’s size, potting mix, and the climate in your home.
When it comes to watering, it’s better to err on the side of too little water rather than too much. Over-watering can lead to root rot, which can kill your lavender plant.
If you’re not sure whether your lavender plant needs water, stick your finger in the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil is dry, it’s time to water. If the soil is still moist, wait a few days and check again.
What type of container should be used for growing lavender plants?
One of the keys to growing a lavender plant is the right pot. While you may be able to find a pot that is the perfect size, it is more important to find a pot with good drainage.
A clay pot with a hole in the bottom is ideal. You can also use a plastic pot with drainage holes. Whatever type of pot you use, make sure to put a layer of gravel in the bottom to help with drainage.
Lavender plants need full sun and well-drained soil. If your pot does not have good drainage, the plant will be more susceptible to root rot. When growing lavender in a pot, it is important to use a light potting mix. A heavy potting mix will hold too much moisture and can lead to problems with the roots.
It is also important to fertilize lavender plants regularly. They are light feeders and need to be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer that is low in nitrogen. Too much nitrogen will encourage leaf growth at the expense of flower production.
When the weather starts to cool in the fall, stop fertilizing and cut back on watering. This will help the plant to go dormant for the winter. In the spring, start fertilizing and watering again when new growth appears.
How to Water a Lavender Plant
Lavender (Lavandula) is a hardy, drought-tolerant herb that is commonly used in landscaping and gardening. Its flowers and leaves are often used in potpourris, sachets, and oils. The plant is relatively easy to grow, but it does require some special care when watering.
1. Use clean water on lavender plants
Lavender plants are susceptible to root rot, so it is important to use clean water when watering them. This means using water that has been filtered or distilled, rather than tap water. Water lavender plants deeply, but infrequently.
2. Water in the morning
The best time to water lavender plants is in the morning. This gives the plant time to absorb the water before the heat of the day sets in. Watering in the evening can cause the plant to develop fungal diseases.
3. Water Where the Roots Are
Avoid watering the leaves of the lavender plant, as this can cause them to rot. Instead, water at the base of the plant, making sure to wet the roots.If you are using a sprinkler, be careful not to over-water, as this can also cause root rot.
4. Water Slowly
Lavender plants should be watered slowly in order to allow the water to penetrate deep into the soil. If you water too fast, the water will run off the surface of the soil and not reach the roots. This can lead to root rot and other plant diseases.
Water lavender plants by testing the soil
When watering lavender plants, it is important to test the soil to see if it needs more water. The best way to do this is to stick your finger into the soil a few inches deep. If the soil feels dry, then the plant needs water. If the soil is wet, then you can wait a few more days before watering.
Final Thoughts
Lavender plants are easy to grow and care for, but they do require some special attention when it comes to watering. Be sure to use clean water, water in the morning, and water slowly to avoid root rot. Test the soil regularly to make sure the plant is getting enough water. With a little bit of care, your lavender plant will thrive.
Now that you know how to water a lavender plant, you can enjoy the beauty and fragrance of this versatile herb in your garden or landscape.
Do you have any complaints about watering lavender plants? Let us know in the comments below.
