Mulching Lavender: A Guide for Beginners
Introduction
Lavender is a popular herb known for its beautiful purple flowers and fragrant leaves. It’s often used in gardens, landscapes, and for its culinary and medicinal properties. However, mulching lavender can be tricky because it prefers well-drained soil and arid conditions. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to mulching lavender, including the best types of mulch to use and how to avoid common mistakes.
Choosing the Right Mulch for Lavender
The key to successful lavender mulching is choosing a material that will help keep the soil well-drained and prevent moisture from accumulating around the roots. Here are some of the best options:
- Crushed rock or pea gravel: These materials are ideal because they allow water to drain quickly and don’t retain moisture.
- Nut shells: Walnut shells or almond shells are a good choice because they break down slowly, adding nutrients to the soil over time.
- Pine needles: Pine needles are naturally acidic, which helps create the ideal soil conditions for lavender.
- Oyster shells: Crushed oyster shells not only provide good drainage but also add calcium to the soil.
- Coarse sand: Coarse sand is a budget-friendly option that helps improve drainage and prevents soil compaction.
Mulches to Avoid for Lavender
Certain types of mulch can be harmful to lavender, especially those that retain moisture or decompose quickly. Avoid using the following:
- Wood or bark mulch: These materials can decompose and create a moist environment that encourages root rot.
- Compost: Compost is too rich and can burn lavender roots.
- Straw (almost always): Straw can trap moisture and lead to root rot, especially in moist climates.
- Fine sand: Fine sand can compact the soil and prevent water from draining properly.
Using Straw or Evergreen Boughs for Mulching Lavender
In arid climates north of USDA hardiness zone 9, you can use a thin layer of straw to provide extra insulation during the winter months. However, it’s crucial to apply straw only after the ground freezes and the plants are completely dormant. Remove the straw in the spring as soon as the danger of extreme cold has passed.
You can also use evergreen boughs to provide winter protection. Lay the boughs over the lavender plants, but be sure to remove them in the spring to prevent moisture buildup.
Additional Mulching Tips
- Apply a thin layer of mulch: About 1 inch (2.5 cm) of mulch is sufficient.
- Keep mulch away from the crown: Don’t pile mulch against the base of the plants, as this can lead to rot.
- Water deeply before mulching: Water the lavender plants thoroughly before applying mulch to help prevent the soil from drying out.
- Monitor soil moisture: Check the soil moisture regularly and water only when necessary.
Conclusion
Mulching lavender is an essential aspect of caring for these beautiful plants. By following these tips and choosing the right mulch materials, you can help your lavender thrive and enjoy its beauty for years to come.