Grow it at home
Even if lavender traces its origins to the Mediterranean coast, it can nevertheless grow in our cold Ontario winters. Some cultivars even thrive in our climate, including the Munstead, True English Hidcote, Melissa and Provence Blue varieties.
- SPRING TIME
It could be said that spring is not lavender's best time of the year! As soon as the snow melts, the plant becomes green and everything looks healthy. But as the days go by it becomes grayish; it's quite unbecoming. It almost looks dead! People often make the mistake of pruning it right to the ground and tearing it off. Please don't do it! You just have to be a little patient. Lavender takes its sweet time to wake up; it must be left as is until mid-June at least. And with the arrival of warmer days, the plant should start to green up and bloom fully.
- PLANTING TIME
- DURING THE SUMMER
It is best to harvest lavender flowers when the buds are 60% open.
- IN THE FALL
If you want to, use a pail to cover and protect your plants from the winter elements.
Never cover your plant with dead leaves, mulch or an object such as a cone.
Remember that snow is also a good insulator for lavender, which is excellent news for Ontario residents. So you must be sure to cover your plant with enough snow if you don't use any other protection.
- DURING THE WINTER