Lavender takes well to growing in containers and requires minimal upkeep so this is a great option if you are wanting to add a little extra beauty and elegance to your patio or deck. And with a variety of sizes and colors, lavender can fit in nicely to just about any color scheme or style. Lavender does have a few easy requirements if it's going to thrive, though, so here are a few important steps in setting up your lavender container garden.
- Select a large container with good drainage. Lavender’s roots are as big or bigger than the plant so think about how big your lavender plant will get and then find a container that’s about the same size. Because lavender is susceptible to root rot, it is also important to find a pot that has good drainage – so no attached saucer and multiple holes would be best.
- Add a 2 inch layer of rocks or gravel to the bottom of the pot to help with drainage.
- The soil mixture should be very loose and porous. So a half/half mix of potting soil and either sand, pumice, or perlite will give your plant the nutrients it needs along with drainage.
- Once you’ve planted your lavender, move it to a spot that receives full sun for at least 8 hours per day. (If you live in an extremely hot area of the country, filtered sunlight works well.)
- Water every two weeks if there has been no rainfall.
- As with your lavender plants in the ground, be sure to prune in the spring or in the fall after blooming.
- The nice thing about lavender in containers is that it can be brought inside to add the same elegance and beauty to the inside of your house!