M y lav en d er plan ts a re g e ttin g

to o large a n d I’d like to d ivide

th e m . W h a t’s th e b e s t w a y to

d o this? W h e n sh o u ld I d o it?

Lavender plants usually grow from a

single stem, almost like a shrub.

That makes them difficult to divide.

However, spreading branches

sometimes naturally take root

where they touch the ground. If that

happens, it should be possible to dig

that part of the plant and divide it.

For a division to succeed, it must

have both roots, and stems w ith

buds. Divide plants in early spring,

just as the buds are beginning to

swell and show new green growth.

C an I g r o w la v en d er in

c o n ta in ers in a full-sun

location?

Yes. In fact, lavender may grow

better in containers than in the

ground because of the excellent

drainage. However, don’t let

containers sit in standing water in

drain pans, because this can keep

the potting soil wet.

Except in Zones 9-10, lavender

may not overwinter in pots unless

you move them into a garage or

shed to shelter them from the

coldest winter days (be sure to

water occasionally). If a variety is

hardy in your Zone, remove plants

from pots in autumn and plant

permanently in your garden.

Combine lavender only with other

plants that thrive in the hot, dryish

conditions that it enjoys.

BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS APRIL 2010 1 3 5

Nursery know-how and gardening tips at

Lowes.com.

L d u i e s

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