How to Make a Lavender Hedge
If you’re looking to add some charm and fragrance to your garden, consider planting a lavender hedge. Not only does it create a beautiful border, but the calming scent of lavender can also help promote relaxation and ease stress. Here’s how to get started:
Choose the Right Location
Before you start planting, make sure you choose the right location for your lavender hedge. Lavender thrives in full sunlight and well-drained soil, so find a spot that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight each day and has good drainage. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, add some sand or gravel to improve drainage.
Prepare the Soil
Once you’ve chosen your location, it’s time to prepare the soil. Start by removing any weeds or grass from the area where the hedge will be planted. Next, loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches and mix in some compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility. Finally, rake the soil smooth and level.
Choose Your Lavender Varieties
When choosing lavender varieties for your hedge, be sure to select those that are suited to your climate zone. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is a popular choice for hedges, as it’s hardy and easy to grow. French lavender (Lavandula stoechas) is another option, but it’s not as cold-hardy and may need winter protection in colder climates.
Plant Your Lavender Hedge
Now it’s time to plant your lavender hedge. Dig a trench that’s about twice as wide as the root ball of your plants and deep enough to accommodate the roots. Space the plants about 18 to 24 inches apart, depending on the variety (check the label for specific spacing instructions). Once you’ve planted all your lavender, water the hedge deeply to help settle the soil.
Maintain Your Lavender Hedge
To keep your lavender hedge healthy and looking its best, be sure to water it regularly (about once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather) and prune it once a year. Prune your hedge in early spring, just before new growth appears, to remove any dead or damaged branches and to shape the hedge.
Enjoy Your Lavender Hedge!
Once your lavender hedge is established, sit back and enjoy its beauty and fragrance. Lavender blooms in mid to late summer, so plan to spend some time outside during those months to fully appreciate your hedge. You can also harvest the flowers to use in potpourri or to make lavender oil or sachets.
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