Sunlight:

Lavender plants need full sun to thrive, so when you choose your container’s location, ensure it receives at least 6+ hours of sunlight daily. You can also grow your potted lavender indoors; find a place like a windowsill that receives even more direct sunlight, at least 8+ hours per day. Plants that doesn’t receive enough sunlight may produce few to no flowers.

Lavender Varieties:

Certain types of lavender grow better in containers than others! ‘Hidcote’ lavender is an incredibly durable variety that adapts easily to growing in pots and containers with dark purple flowers and frosty silver foliage. If you’re looking for a little something unconventional, Spanish lavender boasts unique flowers at the top of its stem and comes in an array of pink and purple colors.

Container Size & Material:

While lavender plants can start small, they can grow to be 1-2 feet tall and wide at maturity. Your plants will need enough space to grow but not too much to where they can get waterlogged. Opting for a container anywhere between 12 inches to 16 inches should do the trick. If you notice your lavender growing quickly, or if you decide to put multiple plants in a single container, you may need to upgrade your size! Learn more about pot sizes HERE.

The most important part of your container: drainage holes. They are essential for success with lavender, as they fade quickly if they stay wet for too long. Also, consider the container material; unglazed ceramic, clay, and terracotta pots are ideal for lavender plants because they absorb excess water and encourage better drainage.

Soil:

While lavender may give the impression that it requires a lot of maintenance due to its showy display, it is actually a carefree plant! As long as the soil is well draining and slightly alkaline, it should deliver both looks and fragrance all season long. Use average potting soil for your containers, or mix in cactus or moisture-controlled potting soil to keep it drier. Fertilize at least once a season (preferably in spring) to encourage vigorous growth. Shop plant fertilizers HERE.

Water:

Remember: lavender plants like it sunny and dry once established! Your newly potted lavenders will need lightly moist soils, but once it has filled out, you can reduce your watering. Limit watering to when the soil feels dry, even during hot summer months. We recommend watering it every 1-2 weeks, depending on climate, sun exposure, and soil composition. If growing indoors, you may need to water less frequently. When it is time to water, do so thoroughly until the soil is completely moist.