How to Grow Lavender from Seed Indoors: A Step By Step Guide
Lavender, with its delightful fragrance and beautiful blooms, is a favourite amongst gardeners and nature lovers alike. This versatile plant doesn’t just add beauty to your garden; it also has a number of uses such as in essential oils, in the culinary arts, and for health benefits. So why not grow one right in the comfort of your home? This guide will show you how to grow lavender from seed indoors easily and effectively. Let’s dive in!
The Best Lavender Varieties to Grow Indoors
The first step in growing lavender from seed indoors involves selecting the right variety. Not every lavender variety might suit indoor growth. For indoor planting, the best choice would be either Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, or Lavandula stoechas, commonly known as French lavender. These two varieties can adapt well to indoor conditions.
English lavender tends to have a strong fragrance, making it popular for use in essential oils and soap-making. French lavender, on the other hand, is known for its decorative and eye-catching petals. Regardless of the variety you choose, both types share similar growing requirements.
Preparing the Seeds for Planting
Next, it’s important to prepare your lavender seeds before sowing. Here’s the fun part: Lavender seeds are best sown in a chilled environment. You may wonder, why? Well, this process, known as stratification, wakes up the seeds from their dormancy, thus making them ready for germination. To do this, wrap the seeds in a damp paper towel, seal them in a ziplock bag, and set them in the refrigerator for about three weeks.
After their chilling experience, the seeds are ready for planting. Lavender seeds are small, so be delicate in handling them. Use a seed-starting mix or make your own by mixing equal parts of perlite, vermiculite, and peat moss. Make sure your pot has good drainage to avoid water-logging.
How to Care for Your Indoor Lavender Seedlings
Once you’ve planted your lavender seeds, the next step is to provide the right care and conditions for them to flourish. Lavender plants love sunlight, so place the pot in a location that receives plenty of natural light. If sunlight is limited, artificial grow lights can be a good alternative.
Lavender needs a good watering, but make sure not to overwater. Let the soil dry out between waterings to discourage root rot. Pruning is another essential aspect. Once the plant has matured, regular trimming encourages more growth and helps the plant maintain its shape.
The Right Temperature and Humidity Levels
Maintaining the right temperature and humidity level is crucial for indoor lavender growth. Ideally, the temperature should range between 60-70°F during the day and 50-60°F at night. A cooler evening temperature helps mimic the plant’s natural environment and encourages stronger growth.
As for humidity, lavender prefers a dry environment. Too high humidity can lead to problems such as fungal diseases. If you live in a place with high humidity, consider using a dehumidifier in your indoor garden area.
Transplanting And Ongoing Care
Once your lavender plants have outgrown their initial containers, it’s time to transplant them. This usually occurs when they are about 3-4 inches tall. Choose a larger pot with plenty of room for growth. Remember, the larger the container, the bigger your lavender plant can grow!
When it comes to ongoing care, keep an eye on sunlight exposure, soil moisture, and pruning as previously described. With the right care, you’ll be enjoying the sight and scent of your lavender plant in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions1. Can any variety of lavender be grown indoors?While all lavender varieties love sunny environments, some are better suited for indoor growing. English and French lavender varieties are the best choices for indoor growth due to their adaptability.2. How long does it take for lavender seeds to germinate indoors?Lavender seeds can take anywhere between 2-4 weeks to germinate indoors, provided they are given the right conditions such as a cold stratification and plenty of sunlight.3. What should I do if my indoor lavender plant doesn’t bloom?If your lavender plant isn’t blooming, it might not be receiving enough light. Lavender plants require at least 6-8 hours of sunlight a day for better growth and blooming. In addition, avoid overwatering as this can also hinder blooming.
