When to Cut Back Lavender in the UK: A Complete Pruning Guide
Pruning lavender correctly is essential for keeping your plants bushy, healthy, and full of flowers. Many gardeners neglect pruning, leading to woody, leggy lavender plants with fewer blooms.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
✔️ When to cut back lavender in the UK
✔️ How to prune lavender without damaging it
✔️ The difference between pruning English, French, and Spanish lavender
✔️ Tips to prevent lavender from becoming woody
Let’s explore the best way to cut back lavender for a long-lasting, thriving plant! 🌿✂️
1. When is the Best Time to Cut Back Lavender in the UK?
The best time to prune lavender in the UK depends on the variety.
🌸 English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) – Late summer to early autumn (August–September)
🌿 French & Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas & Lavandula dentata) – After flowering (July–August)
Tip: Always prune before winter to prevent frost damage.
2. Why is Pruning Lavender Important?
✔️ Encourages more flowers – Regular pruning boosts blooms next season.
✔️ Prevents woody stems – Stops lavender from becoming leggy and bare at the base.
✔️ Extends the plant’s lifespan – Well-pruned lavender plants live up to 15 years.
✔️ Keeps lavender compact – Prevents plants from sprawling or falling over.
Tip: Unpruned lavender can turn woody within 3–4 years, reducing its flowering ability.
3. How to Prune Lavender in the UK: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to properly cut back lavender without harming the plant.
Step 1: Choose the Right Tools
✔️ Use sharp pruning shears or secateurs to avoid tearing stems.
✔️ Disinfect tools before and after pruning to prevent disease spread.
Step 2: Timing is Key
🌸 Prune English lavender in late summer (August–September).
🌿 French & Spanish lavender should be trimmed after flowering (July–August).
Tip: Avoid pruning in winter or spring, as this can damage new growth.
Step 3: The Pruning Method
✔️ Cut back by one-third of the plant’s height.
✔️ Always leave some green growth – never cut into old, woody stems.
✔️ Shape the plant into a neat, rounded mound.
✔️ Remove dead flowers and leggy stems.
Tip: Never cut into brown, woody stems, as they won’t regrow.
4. How to Prevent Lavender from Becoming Woody
Lavender naturally becomes woody over time, but regular pruning delays this process.
✔️ Prune every year – Prevents woody bases and encourages fresh shoots.
✔️ Avoid over-fertilizing – Too much nitrogen leads to leggy growth.
✔️ Plant in well-draining soil – Poor drainage weakens lavender stems.
✔️ Harvest flowers regularly – Light pruning throughout the season keeps plants compact.
Tip: If your lavender is already woody, try hard pruning in early spring to encourage new shoots.
5. Pruning English vs. French & Spanish Lavender
Not all lavender varieties should be pruned the same way.
| Lavender Type | Best Time to Cut Back | How Much to Prune |
|---|---|---|
| English Lavender (Hidcote, Munstead, Vera) | August–September | Cut back by one-third |
| French Lavender (Lavandula stoechas) | July–August | Light trim after flowering |
| Spanish Lavender (Lavandula dentata) | July–August | Remove dead flowers, shape plant |
Tip: English lavender is hardier and can handle a stronger prune, while French and Spanish lavender need lighter trimming.
6. Common Pruning Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Cutting into old, woody stems – These won’t regrow!
❌ Pruning too late in autumn – Exposes new growth to frost damage.
❌ Not pruning at all – Leads to woody, bare lavender plants.
❌ Over-pruning French & Spanish lavender – Can weaken the plant.
Tip: If unsure, prune lightly first—you can always trim more later!
7. What to Do with Lavender Cuttings?
After pruning, don’t throw away your lavender trimmings—they have many uses!
✔️ Make dried lavender sachets – Keep your home smelling fresh.
✔️ Use lavender for potpourri – A natural way to scent drawers & wardrobes.
✔️ Create DIY lavender oil – Infuse lavender in oil for skin & relaxation.
✔️ Compost the cuttings – Lavender adds nutrients to your compost.
Tip: Harvest lavender flowers before pruning for fresh bouquets or crafts.
8. FAQs About Cutting Back Lavender in the UK
When should I prune lavender in the UK?
✔️ English lavender: Late summer (August–September).
✔️ French & Spanish lavender: After flowering (July–August).
Can I cut lavender back in winter?
❌ No. Winter pruning can damage the plant and cause frost burn.
How much should I cut back lavender?
✔️ Trim one-third of the plant’s height, but never cut into woody stems.
How do I fix woody lavender?
✔️ Try a hard prune in early spring, but woody lavender may not regrow.
Can I prune lavender in spring?
✔️ Yes, but lightly—spring pruning helps shape the plant before new growth appears.
Final Thoughts: When & How to Cut Back Lavender in the UK
✔️ English lavender is pruned in August–September; French & Spanish lavender is pruned after flowering in July–August.
✔️ Cut back by one-third to encourage healthy growth and more flowers.
✔️ Never cut into woody stems, as they won’t regrow.
✔️ Pruning yearly prevents lavender from becoming leggy and bare.
✔️ Use lavender trimmings for sachets, potpourri, and homemade essential oils.
Pruning lavender correctly keeps plants healthy, compact, and full of flowers for years! 🌿💜
Have you pruned your lavender yet? Let us know how it’s growing in the comments!
Now you know when and how to cut back lavender in the UK! 🌿✂️ Let me know if you have any questions! 🚀