- Start the seeds indoors from February-April.
- Sow the seeds thinly on the surface of moist, seed compost and press in lightly.
- Place in a heated propagator at 18-21c until germination occurs.
- Germination is erratic and will occur within 14-90 days.
- If germination hasn’t occured after 28 days, cold stratify for 4-6 weeks before returning to warmth.
- Once seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots.
- Grow on in cooler conditions in bright light and avoid overwatering.
- Gradually acclimatise the plants to cooler, outdoor conditions before planting out.
- Plant out after the risk of frost has passed into their final flowering position.
- Space plants about 30-40 cm apart to allow good air circulation.
- Water sparingly once established, avoid over‑watering.
- Prune back lightly in early summer after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
- Harvest flowers when in full bloom for drying or aromatic use.
French Lavender (Lavandula stoechas) is an heirloom perennial with distinctive magenta flower spikes topped by “rabbit ear” bracts. Very fragrant, it’s perfect for sunny borders, rockeries, or containers and attracts pollinators.
