Limitless LavenderThere are many plants that give back more than they are
given from us. This is true of Lavenders, or
Lavandulas. The offerings from Lavender are truly
limitless. Lavenders are drought tolerant, deer-resistant, and
evergreen. You can eat it, use it for aromatherapy, and it is a truly
beautiful plant in the landscape.
History
Lavender has been around since the first century A
D. The genus name, Lavandula is derived from the Latin word
lavo, meaning “to wash” or “to
bathe”. A few drops of lavender oil in your bath water are
always a treat. A Greek naturalist wrote of Lavandula
stoechas as a medicinal plant used as an expectorant and stomach
soother. Lavender is also known to have been used in ancient Rome and
North African civilizations.
Renaissance England was very fond of lavender as it
was first mentioned in the mid-16th century. Early English colonists
brought lavender to America. What a history for one herb!
Lavender does have many applications. We use it
in landscapes, garden beds, potpourris, crafts, medicinal/enjoyable teas,
fresh/dried floral arrangements and even in cooking. Commercial uses
include cosmetics, body care products, lacquers and
varnishes.
Growing Tip:
Most lavenders like light, well-drained
soil. They don’t like soggy soil and most are drought tolerant
once they are established. The plants do benefit from rich soil
amendments and fertilizer. A sunny location is preferred with good
air circulation. Prune first year lavenders to encourage branching
and to discourage 1st year blooms. This will ensure a more
established plant. Do not prune after September so the plant can
‘harden off’ for the winter.
Harvesting:
The best time to harvest lavender is when the first
few buds have opened. Gather the stems in the late morning on a warm,
dry day. Tie the lavender into bundles and hang upside down in a room with
good ventilation but no direct sunlight. Let them dry for a few
days. Check to see if the stems are dry enough for your
needs.
Check out http://www.happyvalleylavender.com/ for
ideas and inspirations for using your dried lavender, including some fun
recipes.
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PORTLAND METRO-AREA NURSERY LOCATIONS |
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SALEM AREA NURSERY LOCATION |
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