Lavender Seeds: How to Grow, Best Varieties, and Where to Buy
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Looking for lavender seeds? Discover the best lavender varieties to grow from seed, how to sow and germinate lavender successfully, and where to buy high-quality lavender seeds in the UK.
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Lavender is one of the most popular and rewarding plants to grow, offering fragrant flowers, beautiful foliage, and pollinator-friendly blooms. While many gardeners buy lavender plants, growing from lavender seeds is a cost-effective way to cultivate a large number of plants.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
✔️ Best lavender varieties to grow from seed
✔️ How to germinate and grow lavender from seed
✔️ Tips to ensure strong, healthy lavender seedlings
✔️ Where to buy lavender seeds online and in-store
Let’s get started with growing lavender from seed like a pro! ??
1. Can You Grow Lavender from Seed?
Yes! But lavender seeds require patience and the right conditions to germinate successfully. Unlike growing from cuttings, lavender from seed takes longer to establish but provides a cost-effective way to grow many plants.
Tip: English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is the easiest to grow from seed.
2. Best Lavender Varieties to Grow from Seed
Not all lavender varieties grow well from seed. Some hybrids (e.g., ‘Grosso’ and ‘Provence’) can only be propagated from cuttings.
Best Lavender Seeds for UK Gardens
? Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’ – Compact, deep purple flowers, highly fragrant.
? Lavandula angustifolia ‘Munstead’ – Hardy, bushy, perfect for small gardens.
? Lavandula multifida (Fernleaf Lavender) – Fast-growing, fern-like leaves.
? Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas) – Butterfly-shaped blooms, ideal for pots.
Tip: English lavender (‘Hidcote’ and ‘Munstead’) are the best varieties to grow from seed in UK climates.
3. How to Grow Lavender from Seed (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Cold Stratification (Pre-Treatment for Seeds)
Lavender seeds germinate better after cold exposure.
✔️ Place seeds in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag.
✔️ Store in the refrigerator for 2–4 weeks.
✔️ Check weekly to prevent mold.
Tip: If your seeds are freshly harvested, they may not need cold stratification.
Step 2: Sowing Lavender Seeds Indoors
✔️ Fill seed trays with a light, well-draining compost (mix with sand or perlite).
✔️ Sprinkle lavender seeds on top – Do not bury too deep!
✔️ Gently press them into the soil – They need light to germinate.
✔️ Mist lightly with water to moisten the soil.
✔️ Cover with plastic wrap or a humidity dome to retain moisture.
✔️ Place in a warm location (18–21°C / 65–70°F).
Tip: Use a heat mat to improve germination speed in colder climates.
Step 3: Germination & Seedling Care
? Germination Time: 2–4 weeks (be patient!)
? Light Requirements: Place under grow lights or on a sunny windowsill.
? Watering: Keep soil lightly moist but not soggy.
✔️ Once seedlings appear, remove the plastic cover.
✔️ After 4–6 weeks, thin out weak seedlings and transplant into small pots.
Tip: If seedlings look leggy, they need more light.
Step 4: Transplanting Lavender Seedlings Outdoors
Once lavender seedlings reach 3–4 inches tall and have several sets of leaves, they’re ready for hardening off and transplanting.
✔️ Gradually expose seedlings to outdoor conditions for 7–10 days.
✔️ Plant in full sun with well-draining soil.
✔️ Water sparingly – Overwatering causes root rot.
Tip: Space plants 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) apart for best growth.
4. Where to Buy Lavender Seeds in the UK
Best Online Stores for Lavender Seeds
?️ Crocus – Offers a wide range of lavender seeds and starter plants.
? Thompson & Morgan – Stocks premium English lavender seeds.
? Suttons Seeds – Great selection of hardy lavender varieties.
? Sarah Raven – Offers organic, high-quality lavender seeds.
? Amazon UK & eBay – Various sellers, check reviews for quality.
Tip: Always choose organic, non-GMO lavender seeds for the best germination rates.
5. Common Problems & How to Fix Them
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| ❌ Seeds not germinating | Needs cold stratification | Chill seeds for 2–4 weeks before planting |
| ❌ Seedlings too tall & weak | Not enough light | Place under grow lights or full sun |
| ❌ Seedlings turning yellow | Overwatering | Water only when soil is dry |
| ❌ Plants not flowering | Too much nitrogen | Use low-nitrogen, high-potash feed |
Tip: Lavender takes 2–3 years to fully mature, so be patient!
6. FAQs About Growing Lavender from Seed
How long does lavender take to grow from seed?
✔️ Germination takes 2–4 weeks, full maturity takes 1–2 years.
Do lavender seeds need light to germinate?
✔️ Yes! Sprinkle seeds on the surface and do not bury deeply.
Can I plant lavender seeds directly in the ground?
✔️ Yes, but indoor germination is more successful in colder climates.
How often should I water lavender seedlings?
✔️ Only when the top inch of soil is dry—lavender hates soggy soil.
What’s the best soil for lavender?
✔️ Sandy, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.5–7.5.
Final Thoughts: Why Grow Lavender from Seed?
✔️ Cost-effective way to grow many lavender plants.
✔️ Best for English lavender varieties like ‘Hidcote’ and ‘Munstead’.
✔️ Requires patience but results in strong, healthy plants.
✔️ Adds fragrance, beauty, and pollinator-friendly blooms to gardens.
Growing lavender from seed is a slow but satisfying process. With proper care, you’ll have fragrant lavender plants that last for years to come! ??
Have you grown lavender from seed? Share your experience in the comments!
Now you’re ready to grow lavender from seed like a pro! ?? Let me know if you have any questions! ?