Why should you grow lavender in a pot? You may have heard that lavender is a perennial herb that grows best in the soil. But does this fact hold true? Does lavender actually grow better in containers or in the ground?
The answer depends on two factors – how much light your lavender will get and how much moisture it will get. Most perennial herbs like lavender, will do well in containers, especially if you provide some drainage. As a rule of thumb you can expect your plants to grow about 1 square foot a week in a container. In the same amount of space, lavender can grow about 3 square feet a week in the same dirt.
Soil type and amount of light are key factors in determining whether or not your lavender will do well in containers. If your soil is heavy, you will need to water more often. On the other hand, if the soil is lightweight, your plants will not need as much water. For the most part, sandy soils and light colors do not benefit your plants as clay does. Clay also dries out the soil quickly.
Another thing that you should consider is the kind of pot you choose. You must make sure that your container does not retain too much water. This can be problematic if you are using a clay pot as some will retain much water. If you choose a pot that has drainage but does not offer protection from frost, your plant will need to be repotted after a major rainfall. It is also important that your container has a tight fitting lid to keep excess moisture from gathering in the winter months.
Your final consideration when deciding on does lavender grow better in a container garden is the mulch. Different types of mulch will be more suited for your needs. Wood chips, bark, and pine needles are good choices for the beginning gardener as they do not need much attention. However, in later stages of your gardening experience, you will want to try using coir, coconut coir, and straw. These products will provide more nutrition to your plants and will also help prevent soil erosion.
One of the biggest questions asked about when people begin to plant their own garden is how does lavender grow better in a pot or ground? The answer is simple. By using the right potting mix, a well drained pot, and regular watering your lavender will thrive. It is a perennial herb that requires minimal maintenance. Its lovely pink blooms will quickly grow to be the focal point of your garden.