EXPERT REVEALS THE SECRET TO GROWING LUSCIOUS LAVENDER IN YOUR GARDEN
Lavender is a plant that instantly brings charm and practicality to any garden. Whether you’re a first-time gardener or a seasoned pro, it’s a go-to favourite that’s as versatile as beautiful. Its signature fragrance and endless uses make it a winner, whether flourishing in garden beds or sprucing up your patio in pots. Garden expert Andrew Stark says, “Lavender’s versatility and resilience make it a must-have, and planting it in summer ensures it will thrive well into autumn.” Here are his top tips to growing luscious lavender in your garden.
Lavender Through the Years
Lavender has come a long way, with modern varieties offering longer blooming periods, bigger flowers, and exciting new colours. “Today’s lavender hybrids add a whole new dimension to gardens,” Andrew says, “You can choose compact types for small spaces or taller varieties for a more formal look.”
Blooming from spring into summer, lavender provides stunning colour and fragrance even during the hottest days when other plants might struggle. Lavender loves full sun, tolerates drought, and thrives in tough soils like sand or clay. It’s one of the most adaptable plants out there.
A Haven for Pollinators
Lavender doesn’t just look and smell amazing; it’s also a magnet for bees and butterflies, making it a great choice for supporting your local ecosystem. “Lavender is a lifeline for pollinators,” Andrew saym. “It’s not just about beauty; it’s about creating balance and boosting biodiversity in your garden.”
Nature’s Stress Reliever
For centuries, lavender has been celebrated for its calming properties. Whether you use it in essential oils or enjoy its soothing scent in your backyard, it’s the perfect natural stress buster. Andrew suggests, “Plant lavender near your outdoor seating area or under a bedroom window to create a relaxing retreat.”
The Lavender Lineup
There’s a lavender variety for every style and purpose. Here are some of Andrew’s top picks:
English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): Classic deep purple flowers with a sweet, unmistakable fragrance.
French Lavender (Lavandula dentata): Soft colors and distinctive toothed leaves.
Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas ssp. pedunculata): Playful “rabbit-ear” blooms that add whimsy.
Italian Lavender (Lavandula stoechas): A unique twist on the Spanish variety, offering its own special charm.
How and When to Grow Lavender
Lavender is surprisingly easy to grow, making it a favourite for gardeners of all skill levels. It thrives in well-drained soil and loves plenty of sunlight, so choose a spot that gets at least six hours of sun daily.
For ongoing care, water sparingly; lavender prefers to dry out between waterings. Prune your lavender plants in late summer or early autumn after flowering to encourage bushy growth and prevent them from becoming woody. With just a little attention, lavender will reward you with vibrant blooms and that signature scent year after year.
You can follow more of Andrew’s tips on his Instagram @andrewstarkgardendeisgn and website andrewstarkgardendesign.com.au
