The Basics of Growing Lavender in Western Colorado
Lavender’s versatility has made it a must have plant for households across
the world. Today, we value lavender for its many uses including aromatherapy, culinary and medicinal purposes, and adding unsurpassed beauty and
fragrance to our gardens. Lavender buds and flowers are made into potpourri, spice mixtures, fresh bundles and wreaths. Essential oils and
hydrosols are used in lotions, perfumes, soaps and candles.
DOWNLOAD THE CSU EXTENSION FACT SHEET - GROWING LAVENDER IN COLORADO
Lavender plants are sold under many different names which can be very confusing to buyers and growers. In order to be sure of what you’re buying, it is important to know the correct Latin name, which uses the rules of botanical nomenclature. Listed below are basic descriptions of lavenders and lavandins that grow in the USDA growing zones 5-7 in the intermountain west. All information is taken from The Genus Lavandula by Tim Upson and Susyn Andrews. These lavenders are readily available in garden centers, mail order catalogs and through LAWC.
| L. angustifolia or Lavandula angustifolia - English Varieties Zone: 5 Size: 2’x2’ Bloom: First bloom – mid June Second bloom - September Best Uses: High quality essential oils (best for therapeutic) Crafting/Bundles Landscaping Most Common: Royal Velvet, Munstead, Hidcote,Twickle Purple, Buena Vista, Folgate, Maillette, Melissa and Miss Katherine |
Lavandula x intermedia - Hybrid or Lavandin |
Lavandula latifolia or L. latifolia Lavandula lanata or L. lanata - Woolly Lavender Lavandula x Chaytorae - angustafolio & lanata hybrid |
Lavender Growing Tips:
Lightly fertilize once a year.
Keep the base of the lavender stalk clear of debris that can hold moisture. This will prevent root rot.
Plant in full sun.
Water consistently until established. After lavender is established, it is a semi-drought tolerant plant
Cut back stems and 1/3 of the bushy part after blooming (usually in July) to prevent woody plants.
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