How to Grow Lavender

Updated June 2026

A warm-season herb for the home garden across the warmer US.

What it looks like as it grows

Lavender is a rewarding warm-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Plant Lavender in spring once the soil has warmed and all frost has passed. In the warmest regions a second crop is possible in late summer. See your region on the lavender page for exact timing.

Varieties

• Spanish Lavender, More heat- and humidity-tolerant (garden centers)
• Phenomenal, Vigorous, humidity-tolerant hybrid (garden centers)

How to grow it

• Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
• Spacing: about 24 in between plants.
• Sowing: barely cover the seed.
• Water: roughly 0.5 gal per plant every 7 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Few. In humid regions, Root rot in wet can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Lavender is usually ready to harvest in about 3 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant lavender where you garden.

See also: Lavender in the plant library →

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