With their lovely scent and ability to brighten up any garden, lavenders are relatively low maintenance – but pruning is everything to keep them going.
Pruning lavender is crucial to prevent the plant from becoming woody and unproductive, as good pruning encourages the plant to focus its energy on producing flowers.
Wondering when to give your lavender plant a haircut? David Denyer, flower expert from Eflorist and former RHS Chelsea Flower Show gold medallist, claimed now is the time to start pruning lavender.
He advised, “The best time to prune your English lavender and lavender types is from late summer to early fall.”
But for those with French lavender, it’s a different story. These varieties are not so hardy in harsh winter conditions and need a little more care.
David explained: “As soon as you notice new growth starting in early spring, cut them back a bit. This light trimming will encourage your lavender to grow bushy and get rid of winter dieback.”
However, be sure to cut your English lavender at least six weeks before the first frost if you’re aiming for “fuller, bushier and stronger than ever” for next season.
Gardening expert David also gave some top tips for getting your lavender plants to bloom, advising: “By removing spent flower stems, you’re preparing for next year’s flowering season.
“Don’t forget a formative cut to keep your lavender neat and compact, avoiding the wrinkled, woody look that can make your garden look unkempt.”
Pruning lavender should be on your agenda if you want it to flourish, and luckily it’s resourceful, as each medium-sized plant only takes 15-30 minutes of your time; although larger bushes may require an hour or more.
David continued his sage advice, cautioning, “You want to cut about a third of the plant, focusing on the green, leafy parts, leaving the woody part alone.
“If you want a nice rounded look, finish the outer part slightly shorter than the middle part. Don’t go overboard. A little naturalness is always attractive. And remember that lavender is tough, so don’t hesitate to give it a good cut. It will bounce back.”
He’s not just talking hot air; David explained that there was still plenty of time to get those loppers out. She points out that pruning lavender plants now, in late summer, gives them extra time to prepare for winter while maintaining their health and vitality.
David concluded by noting the long-term benefits: “A good plum now pays big next year. You will notice a huge difference. Your lavender looks fuller, bushier and healthier.
“Plus, you can expect more of those lovely purple flowers. It might look a little bare for a while, but trust me, it’ll grow back stronger than ever.”
