Growing Lavender in Canada: Tips and Tricks for a Beautiful and Fragrant Garden

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Ashley

Ashley is a soil scientist who has had a passion for plants since she was a small child. In the long summers as a child, she would garden alongside her grandmother and it was then that she realized her love for greenery. With years of great studying, Ashley had begun her post-secondary education at the University of Saskatchewan. After years of working in agriculture R&D she has decided to take on teaching gardeners using science.

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Native to the Mediterranean region, lavender is a lovely and aromatic herb. In Canada, it is also a well-liked option for backyard landscapes and gardens. Due to the cooler environment, growing lavender in Canada can be somewhat difficult, but it is most definitely achievable with the proper care and attention.

If you are new to this blog my name is Ashley and I am a soil scientist. I am located in a Canadian Zone 3 and a USDA Zone 4. I write articles, make YouTube videos, Instagram & Facebook posts all designed for Canadians and Cold Climate gardeners using science-based methods. If you are looking for anything specific be sure to let me know in the comments down below.

The following advice will help you cultivate lavender in Canada:

Pick the appropriate variety

Not all lavender cultivars grow well in Canadian climes. Try to choose types like English lavender or ‘Hidcote’ that can withstand Zones 3 or 4 if mulched properly. Keep in mind if you treat lavender as annual from seed you are unlikely to get much for blooms. However, you could try overwintering the plant indoors or in the garage.

Find A Spot

The best place to grow lavender is in full sun with well-drained soil. Select a spot in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. For colder zone go south facing with a ton of sun and close to a home for extra heat during the winter months.

Prepare the soil

Lavender enjoys a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5 and a slightly alkaline environment. If necessary, add lime to the soil to raise pH. Additionally, the soil needs to drain well.

Plant at the right season

Since the soil is warmer in the spring and fall, lavender should be planted during those times. The plant has more time to establish itself in the spring before the winter weather sets in.

Watering

Lavender prefers to dry out between waterings; avoid overwatering it while also preventing complete drying. Underwater is generally preferable to overwater.

Pruning

Regular pruning will foster blooms and new growth in your lavender plant. After the plant has completed blooming in the spring or early summer, trim the stems down by around one-third.

Winter protection

Add mulch to the area around the plant’s base to help keep the roots warm. To protect the plant from strong winds, you can also use burlap or other coverings.

These pointers will help you develop a gorgeous and robust lavender plant in Canada. Enjoy the floral fragrance and calming scent that lavender adds to any garden.

Please consult local gardening professionals for better outcomes as these are only basic guidelines and results may vary based on the microclimate.