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Propagating English lavender is a rewarding experience that allows you to increase your collection of this fragrant and beautiful plant without purchasing new ones. I find the process straightforward, yet it’s vital to pay attention to specific details to ensure success. By taking cuttings from healthy plants, you can create new lavender plants that are genetic replicas of their parent, ensuring that the distinctive qualities of your chosen cultivar are preserved.

English lavender cuttings in soil, misted with water, under a clear plastic dome in a sunny location

My own propagation endeavors have taught me the importance of the time of year and the type of cuttings used. Early spring or late summer are ideal for taking semi-hardwood cuttings, which tend to root more effectively than softwood cuttings. Selecting the right part of the lavender plant is crucial; I always look for vigorous, green growth that is free of pests and disease to increase the chances of rooting.

I have found that patience is key when propagating lavender. After preparing the cuttings and placing them in a suitable rooting medium, it generally takes a few weeks for roots to develop. Creating the right environment with abundant indirect light and consistent moisture, but not waterlogged soil, helps the delicate new roots grow. This method not only multiplies my lavender collection but also deepens my connection with the gardening process as I witness the transformation from cutting to flourishing plant.

Propagation Basics

To ensure success while propagating English lavender, it’s essential to grasp the proper techniques for cuttings and comprehend the best conditions that promote growth. Here’s how I get the best results:

Understanding Cuttings

When I propagate lavender, I use stem cuttings, which can be either softwood or hardwood. Softwood cuttings are from new, green growth and are best taken in spring. In contrast, hardwood cuttings are more mature wood from the plant, which I find better taken in fall. Each has their distinct advantages.

Preparing for Propagation

I start with a sharp knife or pruning shears to ensure a clean cut just below a leaf node. The cut is at a 45-degree angle to increase the surface area for rooting. Dipping the cut end in rooting hormone can enhance success, but it’s not always necessary. Clean cuts and moisture are critical here.

Seed Propagation

Although I typically propagate lavender from cuttings, starting from seed is possible but takes patience and time. Lavender seeds require a warm environment and lots of light to germinate effectively. However, they take a long time to develop into robust seedlings and eventually mature plants.

When to Propagate

For the highest success rate, I propagate English lavender in the growing season, either in spring or fall. These seasons offer optimal conditions for root development with more consistent moisture levels and milder temperatures.

Propagating Lavender in Water

Propagating in water is a soil-free method I use, which involves placing the cuttings in a glass of water. The cuttings shouldn’t have leaves touching the water to prevent rot. Once I see significant root growth in the water, I carefully transplant them to soil where they can continue to grow. It’s a clean and straightforward way to observe root development.

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