Herb – Lavender Vera

Description

50 Seeds per pack

Lavender Vera (A.K.A. English Lavender)

Days to Maturity: 85 Days

Sun Requirements: Full sun; tolerates brief afternoon shade in hot climates.

Botanical Name: (Lavandula angustifolia)

One of the hardiest of all lavenders, Lavender Vera is a treasured heirloom known for its potent fragrance and versatile utility. Its name derives from the Latin lavare, meaning “to wash,” a nod to its long role in soaps, sachets, and bath blends. Used across Europe since antiquity, this perennial becomes more vigorous with each passing year, reaching full maturity by its third to fifth season.

This compact, woody shrub grows 20–30 inches tall and 18 inches wide, with narrow, silver-green evergreen leaves up to 2 inches long that release their signature scent when brushed. In early to midsummer, interrupted spikes bear clusters of ¼–½-inch violet-blue flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators.

Lavender Vera thrives in full sun and well-drained, even poor soils, and withstands drought well once established. A fine choice for borders, walkways, and cottage gardens, it also serves well as a companion plant thanks to its insect-repelling oils. While primarily grown for its aromatic and cleansing qualities, the flowers—used sparingly—lend a unique floral note with hints of rosemary and mint to baked goods, teas, syrups, and preserves. Some recipes for Herbes de Provence include it in small quantities.

For preservation, cut stems before full bloom and dry in bundles in a cool, airy place, or use a dehydrator. Dried buds retain their scent for months and are ideal in sachets, potpourris, smudge sticks, or tucked into drawers as a moth deterrent. The flowers can also be infused into homemade cleaners or room sprays.

Rich in vitamins A and C, lavender has long been cherished for its medicinal qualities. Traditionally used to calm the nerves, ease digestion, and soothe inflammation, it also boasts antiseptic, antifungal, and insect-repelling properties.

Caution and Disclaimer: Culinary use is limited to flowers and leaves in small quantities. Lavender essential oil is not safe for ingestion, and some individuals may experience sensitivities. Lavender is generally safe for children, though essential oils should be used with caution and under guidance. Those pregnant, nursing, or managing health concerns should consult a healthcare provider before use. This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. We do not assume responsibility for any adverse effects resulting from its use.

Planting Instructions for Lavender Seeds

When to Plant:
Start seeds indoors 10–12 weeks before your last expected frost date. To improve germination, refrigerate seeds for 30 days before sowing. Transplant outdoors in spring after danger of frost has passed, or in early fall in zones 7–10 to allow roots to establish before winter.

Where to Plant:
Choose a site in full sun with excellent air circulation. Lavender thrives in dry, open conditions. Avoid shaded or humid spots. If planting in colder climates (Zones 5–6), use a south-facing slope or raised bed for best results. Lavender also grows well in large containers with gritty, well-drained soil.

Soil Requirements:
Lavender prefers poor, fast-draining soil with a pH near 7.0. Sandy or rocky soils are ideal. In acidic soils, add garden lime to raise the pH. Avoid compost-heavy or water-retentive soils. In heavy clay, amend with coarse sand, gravel, or pine bark fines to improve drainage.

Seed Depth and Spacing:
Sow seeds just below the surface—no more than ⅛” (3mm) deep. Keep the soil lightly moist but never wet. Transplant seedlings 24–36″ apart in rows spaced 30–36″.

Watering:
Keep soil slightly moist during germination and while young plants are establishing. Once established, water deeply but infrequently. Avoid overwatering, as lavender is highly sensitive to “wet feet” and root rot.

Care Tips:
Mulch with 1–2″ of gravel or pine needles to suppress weeds and encourage drainage. Avoid organic mulches like bark or compost. Do not fertilize heavily; lavender prefers lean soil. Prune lightly in spring to remove winter damage and shape the plant. Cut back by up to one-third after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain vigor.

Harvesting:
For drying, harvest stems when just a few buds have opened—this is when the essential oils are at their peak. For fresh use, wait until more buds have opened for fuller appearance and color. Always harvest in the morning after the dew has dried. Hang in small bunches to dry in a cool, dark, well-ventilated space.

Storage: For best results, dry lavender at a temperature between 95°F (35°C) and 115°F (46°C). A food dehydrator set to the lowest setting (around 95°F) helps preserve fragrance. Oven drying can be done at about 170°F, but requires close monitoring to avoid scorching. Air drying is the slowest but gentlest method—hang bunches upside down in a dark, warm, and well-ventilated space. Avoid drying in direct sunlight, as this can cause the flowers to fade.

Once fully dry, store lavender bundles or loose buds in an airtight container kept in a cool, dark place. Avoid plastic bags or humid areas, which can degrade the scent and encourage mold. Glass jars or metal tins are ideal for preserving fragrance and potency.

Seed Saving:
Allow flower heads to dry fully on the plant. Remove stalks and finish drying indoors out of direct sun. Strip and thresh seeds by hand. Once cleaned and dried, store seeds in a cool, dry, and dark location in an airtight container to preserve viability.

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