How to Grow Lavender in Pots? - Planting Guide in Containers

If you are searching for how to grow lavender in pots, before that let me tell you lavender are such beautiful plants, as they are eye catching faster grower houseplants. Many people want them in their house due to its charming look. If you want to grow them in a pot then let’s find out about it.

How to Grow Lavender in Pots? Growing lavender in pots is easy, reliable and pots can be beneficial to move them indoors for warmth in winters. Lavender grows fast, it requires water and full sunlight to thrive. That is why we need pruning for lavender in pots as well to maintain their size and look. Although they are trimmed due to spent flowers so that in the new season they can grow back every year like this.

I myself have a lot of lavender growing beautifully in pots as well as in the garden because I tested both the ways and the difference is not that much. For gardens it gets more space to spread which means it requires more pruning while in pots the limited nutrients can restrict the growth of lavenders but it doesn’t make them spread too fast.

The flowers in both methods came on time and as you know the more space they get the more blooms you may see from lavender plants.

Caring is easy for beginners because that requires you to have good fertile soil, often watering whenever our lavender plant feels thirsty and a good place to get a minimum of 6-8 hours light.

Yes they grow in full sun that is why they have faster growth as compared to plants that grow in shade or indirect light. Lets now know about various things when growing lavender in pots.

Table of Contents

Does lavender do well in pots?

Yes lavender plants do well in pots, containers and they can tolerate to some of harsh conditions as well. Potted lavender is easy to grow and care for but remember you need to prune it when the time comes and also to avoid any overwatering. These plants are most popular with its flowers bright color and making a potting soil can help to grow more such in your garden as well.

Lavender is a diverse and beautiful plant with numerous varieties that can be cultivated both in the ground and in pots or containers. Its exquisite blooms are used in various arrangements and can serve as exceptional decorative elements in any setting. Whether you opt to grow lavender from seeds or cuttings, following the appropriate techniques is essential to ensure a healthy and thriving plant.

Starting lavender from seeds is a relatively simple process that even inexperienced gardeners can successfully accomplish. The first step is to choose an appropriate pot or container with proper drainage holes. Lavender prefers well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots, which can lead to root rot and other issues. You can use a commercial potting mix or create your own blend by combining sand, peat moss, and perlite.

Once the pot or container is ready, it’s time to sow the lavender seeds. The ideal time for sowing seeds is in the spring, giving the plants ample time to establish their root systems before colder months arrive. Carefully sprinkle the fresh lavender seeds evenly on the topsoil layer and gently cover them with a thin layer of soil. Press the seeds down lightly to ensure good contact with the soil, but avoid burying them too deep.

Lavender seeds require consistent moisture for successful germination. After sowing the seeds, water the pot thoroughly to create a humid environment that encourages sprouting. However, overwatering should be avoided, as excessive moisture can lead to fungal problems and hinder germination. It’s best to water the pots whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Additionally, placing a plastic cover or plastic wrap over the pots can help retain moisture during the germination process.

As the lavender seedlings grow, providing proper care is crucial for their healthy development. Once the seedlings have a few sets of true leaves, you can transplant them into larger pots or containers to give their roots more space to grow. Lavender thrives in sunny locations, so place the pots in an area that receives at least six to eight hours of sunlight daily. If you’re growing lavender indoors, use artificial grow lights to supplement natural sunlight.

Regular pruning is essential to maintaining the health and longevity of lavender plants. Trim off any dead or wilted flowers regularly to encourage more blooms and prevent the plant from expending energy on seed production. Pruning should be done in the spring or after the plant has finished flowering for the season.

Since lavender plants in pots are more susceptible to drying out, monitoring their water needs carefully is crucial. Water the plants when the top inch of soil feels dry, and ensure that the pots have proper drainage to prevent waterlogging. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases, so finding a balance between keeping the soil moist and avoiding excessive moisture is essential.

One advantage of growing lavender in pots or containers is the flexibility to move the plants around to find the best sunlight and temperature conditions. Lavender thrives in warm climates and well-draining soil, making it an excellent choice for Mediterranean-style gardens. However, if you live in a colder region or experience harsh winters, consider moving the pots indoors or to a sheltered area to protect the plants from freezing temperatures.

Apart from being visually appealing, lavender offers numerous practical benefits. Its fragrant blooms attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them a valuable addition to any pollinator garden. Lavender also possesses aromatic properties that are often used for relaxation and stress relief in the form of essential oils and herbal teas.

Does potted lavender come back every year?

English lavender and lavandula x intermedia are two varieties that can come back every year if potted. These potted lavender can tolerate cold freezing temperatures and can grow again after winters. These plants live for many years if grown with proper care and have good climatic conditions which don’t harm much of its leaves and the plant itself.

Our potted lavender is hardy to zone 5 and can come back every year and show us beautiful blooms again. There are other varieties which include lavandula latifolia, lavandula stoechas and lavandula dentata. Some has different names in US and UK.

Spanish lavender are generally tolerable to zone 7 to 9. and for Portuguese lavender that are supported in more zone from 7 -10. While the French lavender is hardy to zone 8 to 11.

If you grow them in colder areas without their appropriate zone they will not survive and die back. Potted ones can be taken inside the house but if the temperature is freezing cold above the limit then no potted lavender can keep up the winters.

Some believe that with a proper detailed care your lavender can survive up to 14-15 years and produce blooms all those years. You need to prune the spent flowers and for the next season they will come again and grow.

There are varieties of English lavender that survive colder climates easily even if the winter can be harsh this year. The 2 varieties are Munstead and hidcote and they will come back every year after bloom and can tolerate 20-25 degree F temperature.

I always recommend everyone who wants to buy beautiful lavender then go for those which can survive good enough for many years. Below I provided the links for lavender plants.

Hidcote lavender plant – Buy or Amazon.
Munstead lavender plant – Buy or Amazon

How do you care for a potted lavender plant?

How to Grow Lavender in Pots? - Planting Guide in Containers — How to Grow Lavender in Pots? – Planting Guide in Containers

Caring for a potted lavender plant requires regular watering, appropriate temperature not too cold, Good sunlight and well draining soil. It is needed to maintain lavender plants growth and you can then easily care for it. lavender are easy to grow and robust flowering plants. They are drought tolerant but do not forget to water them if they want it otherwise they might wilt and drop soon.

They grow bigger so a proper pruning is needed every few months whenever you see longer growth. You also need liquid based fertilizer for lavender plants because once they start growing they require more nutrients and energy which is limited in potting soil so providing plant food weekly will fulfill its needs. The fertilizer can help the bloom more bright and can make it produce more such blossoms.

Lavender plants are best grown in full sunlight or may be in a location that is getting sun for at least 7-8 hours a day. You need to water them whenever the lavender plants feel dry. Do not overwater them because their roots are affected with excess watering which leads to fungal infection and root rot. I would suggest always checking the soil for 2 inch between watering. Also not to water when there is already water on the soil surface.

Many of the lavender varieties do not get past the winter because they could not tolerate the heavy cold climate. There is English lavender that can manage to over winter and grow every year, and these varieties I always recommend to my blog readers. Some of the varieties do look more charming and strong but once the winter comes they do not survive and get issues.

For a potted lavender plant it is easy to move them to a good location so it doesn’t get affected by the cold. Sometimes it does survive the winter because they are placed indoors timely and provided a warm temperature, lavender likes heat and hates cold climate so providing an ideal temperature and environment can make their chances of survival high in your house.

I myself used to put them in the garage area. It is more closed and too warm so lavender can survive there. This is the way to protect them from the winters and the cold. You also don’t need to water them too much in winters because they are not able to absorb it, making their roots rot because of the infection.

Also In winters you should not provide them plant food and the fertilizing can take place in the growing season only.

Why is my potted lavender dying?

A potted lavender dying due to different reasons including overwatering, imbalance pH, overfertilizing, insufficient moisture, wrong climatic. A dying lavender in pots is pruned too much or they do not find an ideal location which makes it dying or shredding leaves or some might be turning yellow. Potted lavender problems can be fixed by reducing water, changing location, modifying soil, lowering the pruning or by checking the root system whether it is damaged or not.

You need to determine which of these reasons have made your potted lavender dying. There are many cases where the lavender varieties are different which doesn’t tolerate the winters that made it die in the freezing cold.

Choosing the right variety of lavender is also important and secondly they can be getting too much water which is making their roots rot or having infection that leads to leaf dropping or wilting that leads to the plant dying.

Another reason for potted lavender faced issues is because of soil that is draining too slowly. Clay based soils have impacts which restrict the water draining and that leads to root rot problem and your plant may die because of this. A lavender plant likes soil which gets drained without stopping much on the roots.

Sometimes soil gets too much fertilizer or organic matter that makes water draining difficult and it lets the water stay on the soil for a longer period of time which results in the dying of potted lavender plants.

Whenever you see this type of issue the plant may give you signs like browning of leaves is yellowing. You should immediately change the soil if the roots of your plant get affected.

As you know potted lavenders need a lot of sunlight for at least 6-8 hours and if your potted ones do not get enough light then they will not grow properly and die back. Sometimes people take them to a location which doesn;t have sunlight for not even 4 hours due the house structure or maybe because of no space.

This makes the plant get limited sunlight and the plant will not grow as good as when it is grown in full sunlight. You can always change the location of your potted lavender plant because they can be moved to different locations and tested out which works for your plant.

There are many more problems like soil acidity which should be 6.5-7.8 and mostly if it can be more than 6.5 the soil is good for the lavender. Also low humidity might cause the leaf loss of water which leads to browning of leaves. Another problem is trimming in the wrong season would give an issue to your lavender plant.

Growing lavender in pots from seed

Growing lavender in pots from seeds is a process where you can see the journey of your plant from seed to flowers. First you need to purchase lavender seeds from a trusted supplier and then use a small pot or you can use a large container for multiple lavender seeds germination. It is an easy and beginner friendly method because you just need to put the seeds on top soil and sprinkle some seeds.

Then put some compost or perlite over them. I guess the 0.5 inch layer of soil you need to use to cover the seeds. gently water the lavender seeds so they get moist. In the initial days of germination, you need to provide them with sufficient humidity by sprinkling water lightly on hot days regularly. They should get enough water on soil to create a humid environment.

Lavender seeds take 2-3 weeks time to germinate and once you get 1 inch to 2 inch size of the sprouts or seedlings then better to shift each of the seedlings to a separate pot. They will grow faster after that. Use a good fertilizer potting soil in every pot.

Give water daily or check the soil if it is wet then do not give water. Location will also play a crucial role because in the initial phase of germination a seed needs no direct light or even they don’t need indirect light they just need a space that can be cool.

You may have seen those videos where many people use rooting hormones to root out cuttings that seem to be a chemical process. But there are some other methods like putting a polythene over your pot for the whole day and making 2-3 holes in the polythene.

This polythene will cover the top of the pot completely. They will trap the air and increase the humidity for seeds to speed up germination. Also the small holes, you can do 2-3 small holes, it will provide air to your plant.

This way your plant may germinate after 1-2 week. The rooting hormone is used in the stem cutting method where it is dipped in the powder and then placed in the pot. The rooting hormone increases its root production and makes the plant grow early.

Ultimately a propagation by seeds is a slow process in comparison to the stem cutting. making a new plant from the start or creating another plant from an existing one is 2 different ways. You can use any and both of these propagation method has some learning.

Best lavender for pots

Best lavender for pots are hidcote and munstead varieties which are commonly known as English lavenders. These lavender can be potted because they have a mature size over 18 inch(45cm) that can be easily grown in pots, containers. There are other lavenders which have size over 35 inches (90 cm) which cannot be grown in pots because they need a larger container to make the space for a single lavender. Better to grow them in gardens, landscapes, lawn, or borders.

The 2 varieties of lavender I suggest can tolerate extreme cold and can come back every year. When growing potted lavenders you should provide them regular water, an area which has 6-8 hours sunlight.

Our potted lavenders have grown for the last 4 years and the blooms come back again due to changing their location in winters & saving them from the heavy cold. I make sure they get warmer temperatures indoors in the dormant stage, also I myself use a pruner to cut off some of the larger top leaves in half so they can grow again next season.

Also, for the caring aspect, you should never overwater your lavender plant because they don’t like too much water, or being wet for hours. The problem they face when overwatered is fungal infection or root rot which leads to browning or yellowing of leaves.

What kind of pots should you use for your lavender? It is easy, the one that doesn’t make the water stay longer, can protect your plant root from heat, and has more depth. Also That has a minimum chance of getting overwatered due to the ability to get dry after a few hours of air.

Two of my favorite pots for lavender are terracotta and ceramic, both have good drainage and in terms of looks the ceramic ones are best to showcase the plant in the house. Terracotta are mainly very popular because they can get air outside which helps it to get dry and avoid any future overwatering, while the ceramic ones are similar with good draining and space but they also have a design and look which people are eager to buy.

As you know the world now has eyes to talk and if they don’t find good things in your house then they will talk wrong about your and your house. I do not recommend any metal, wooden pots as they are easily eased, water doesn’t dry properly and can get spoiled.

If you are on a budget then using a plastic pot for a temporary solution is good but for nature safety I avoid taking any pot made out of plastic.

Buy terracotta pots for lavender – Shop Now

Buy Ceramic Pots for Lavender –

Link 1 – Shop Now

Link 2 – Shop Now

Best soil for lavender in pots

Before giving you the list of soils for lavender in pots, I suggest making your own potting mix. It is easy but for those who don’t want to make just wait, I will give a list of all the best soils for lavender plants.

Recipe 1 for Soil Mix for lavender grown in pots.

garden soil
Organic Compost or Cow manure
Perlite

Recipe 2 for lavender soils

You can use any organic compost made from Cow Manure to flower, vegetable waste. Perlite that is used in the formula makes the soil drain the water and does not let it stay there. A Coco Coir used in the second formula is the best thing that can speed up seed germination, or rooting.

Here is the List of Best Soils for lavender In pots:

1 . WONDER SOIL Organic Potting Soil

2 . Compressed Organic Potting-Soil

3 . FoxFarm Potting Soil

4 . MIracle-Gro Potting Mix

Does lavender spread in pots

Lavender doesn’t spread in pots and the only way lavender spreads is if the seeds drop on the pot from the flowering heads that bear it. In Pots, lavender growing from seeds has low chance because they do not get sufficient nutrients and can take a lot of time to germinate, even with the larger existing lavender it has low chance that it will survive in full sun as there will be too much heat for 6-8 hours. And for seeds germination it needs moist soil and humidity at the initial stage.

Lavender does not self propagate that is why you either take seeds from the flowers after it is spent or directly purchase it from the vendor or nursery.

You can limit the spreading of lavender by pruning it off once it blooms. This trimming also helps the plant to get ready for the next season. The plant is a fast grower and if provided good nutrients and care your plant may reach to 30-40 inches (100 cm).

There are different lavender plant varieties which spread according to their size. Some of them can be smaller and grown in pots or containers.

For example a dwarf lavender grows about 24 inches while the semi dwarf can spread to 20-24 inches. There are some giant lavenders which have over 40 inches(100cm) height and they are fast growers, generally for gardens and various other landscapes.

Growing lavender in pots in texas

Growing lavender in pots in texas which has USDA zone 7a to 9a. You can grow spanish, english, portuguese lavender in texas easily as these varieties can tolerate winters and can be hardy to the zone of which texas belongs.

Given the diverse climatic conditions in Texas, choosing the appropriate lavender varieties is essential for successful cultivation. Spanish, English, and Portuguese lavenders stand out as the most viable options due to their resilience to winter and adaptability to the specific zone ranges found in Texas.

Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas): Characterized by its striking “rabbit ear” blooms, Spanish lavender adds an enchanting touch to any garden. While relatively well-suited to Texas’ climate, this variety may require additional protection during harsh winter conditions.
English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): The most commonly grown lavender variety in Texas, English lavender is celebrated for its cold-hardy nature. For gardeners residing in the northern part of Texas in USDA zone 6b, this variety is particularly recommended, as it enhances the chances of survival during colder months.
Portuguese Lavender (Lavandula latifolia): Another excellent choice for Texas gardeners is Portuguese lavender. With its ability to withstand warmer climates and thrive in well-draining soil, it is a preferred option for those residing in USDA zones 7a to 9a.
Lavender Pot Cultivation Tips for Zones 7a to 9a

a. Pot Selection: Selecting the appropriate container is crucial when growing lavender in pots. Opt for containers with adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, as lavender plants are sensitive to excess moisture. Terracotta pots, which promote better airflow and evaporation, are an ideal choice.
b. Soil Preparation: Lavenders thrive in well-draining soil with a slightly alkaline pH. Creating a balanced growing medium can be achieved by mixing equal parts of potting soil, sand, and perlite. A small amount of limestone can be added to maintain the soil’s pH at a favorable level.
c. Sunlight Requirements: Lavender flourishes in full sunlight, so it is essential to choose a sunny location for potted plants. Ensure they receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
d. Watering: Although lavender is drought-tolerant, regular watering is crucial during its initial growth phase. Once the plant is established, reduce watering frequency to prevent over-saturation.
e. Pruning: Regular pruning helps maintain the plant’s shape, encourages bushier growth, and prevents the formation of woody stems.
f. Fertilization: Lavenders generally do not require excessive fertilization. Applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer sparingly during the growing season provides essential nutrients.

Special Care for Zone 6b (Northern Texas) Lavender

Gardeners residing in the northern part of Texas, classified as USDA zone 6b, face colder winters, making lavender cultivation more challenging. Implementing these special care tips can enhance the survival chances of lavender plants in these colder climates:

a. Winter Protection: To protect lavender plants from frost damage during winter, consider moving the pots to a sheltered location such as a greenhouse or covered patio. Alternatively, use frost cloth or mulch to shield the plant from freezing temperatures.
b. Soil Insulation: Insulating the soil with a thick layer of mulch around the lavender plant’s base helps protect the roots from cold temperatures during winter.
c. Avoid Overwatering: During colder months, reduce watering frequency to prevent the lavender from sitting in overly damp soil, which may lead to root rot.
d. Container Placement: Positioning the pots against a south-facing wall or structure can provide additional warmth and protection from cold northern winds.

How often to water lavender in pots

A lavender in pot should be watered in every week in sunny days. It should be often watered when placed in full sun. You need to sprinkle water regularly when it is grown from seeds then slowly once the plant is established you can change the watering time to twice a week , then once a week for an established lavender plant.

A potted lavender which grows in zone 8,9,10,11 need water often because the place has sunlight that can be extreme.

Lavender, native to the Mediterranean region, has adapted to thrive in dry, sunny environments and possesses efficient mechanisms to survive with minimal water. In potted settings, replicating lavender’s natural habitat while providing adequate hydration is crucial for its healthy growth.

a. Watering Frequency for Seedlings: When growing lavender from seeds, it is essential to maintain consistent soil moisture until the seedlings establish themselves. Lightly sprinkle water over the soil surface regularly to keep the moisture levels balanced without causing waterlogging.

b. Watering Frequency for Established Plants: Once the lavender plant has developed a strong root system, it becomes more drought-tolerant. As a general rule, in sunny climates, an established potted lavender should be watered about once a week during periods of intense sunlight.

Watering Potted Lavender in Sunny Climates (Zone 8, 9, 10, 11)

Regions characterized by zones 8, 9, 10, and 11 typically experience hot and sunny weather, presenting unique challenges for potted lavender. To ensure successful growth in such climates, gardeners should follow specific watering practices:

a. Assessing Soil Moisture: Prior to watering, check the soil’s moisture level by inserting your finger about an inch deep into the soil. If it feels dry, it is time to water the plant. Refrain from watering if the soil is still moist, as overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues.

b. Watering Frequency: In areas with extreme sunlight, potted lavender may require more frequent watering to offset rapid evaporation and prevent the soil from drying out completely. Depending on weather conditions, it might be necessary to water the lavender plant every 4 to 5 days instead of the usual weekly schedule.

c. Watering Technique: When watering potted lavender, use a gentle stream or a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water at the soil level. Avoid wetting the plant’s foliage, as lavender leaves are susceptible to fungal diseases if they remain damp for extended periods.

d. Watering Time: To minimize water loss due to evaporation, it is best to water potted lavender in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are lower, and the sun’s intensity is reduced.

Additional Watering Tips for Lavender in Sunny Climates

a. Mulching: Applying a layer of organic mulch around the base of the lavender plant can help retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weed growth.

b. Self-Watering Systems: In extreme climates, consider using self-watering containers or irrigation systems that deliver water directly to the plant’s roots, ensuring consistent hydration.

c. Rainwater Harvesting: Whenever possible, collect and use rainwater for watering your potted lavender. Rainwater is naturally balanced and free from chemicals, making it an ideal choice for the herb’s watering needs.

d. Grouping Plants: Grouping potted lavender plants together can create a microenvironment that retains moisture, benefiting all the plants in the cluster.