Curious about how to plant Munstead lavender, a cultivar renowned for its captivating scent among purple herbs? This post covers everything I’ve learned about caring for them.
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I first fell in love with Lavender as a child when my parents used Lavender spray to freshen up my room.
You're reading: How to Plant Munstead Lavender: Everything You Should Know
For me, it’s the scent of childhood—pure and clean (though, apologies, Lavender is also a popular scent for cleaning solutions!).
I’ve never been a fan of cologne, but my go-to for smelling good is always Lavender.
Having Lavender in my garden brings me bliss, and having it around my room is a dream.
Its scent is always refreshing and calming to the mind. Among all the varieties, Munstead Lavender stands out for its exceptionally fragrant blooms.
Wondering if it’s easy to care for? Below, I’ll share what I’ve learned about tending to this amazing herb!
What is Munstead Lavender
Munstead lavender, also known as Lavandula Angustifolia ‘Munstead,’ is a cold-hardy cultivar of Lavender.
It’s distinguished by its flowers, which cluster predominantly among the top tips.
Munstead’ was reportedly named after Munstead Woods in England, where the plant was cultivated by garden designer Gertrude Jekyll (1843-1932).
I believe it is native to the Mediterranean Basin and is perfectly adapted to the cold climates of the southern regions.
Famous for its potent fragrance, Munstead lavender produces lavender oil with minimal camphor or pine notes.
It’s my top pick for infusing freshness into my surroundings. Waking up to its blooming flowers in the morning and inhaling deeply in my garden is incredibly satisfying.
- Bloom Time: Twice a year, typically starting in late spring or early summer.
- Temperature: Hardiness Zones 5-9.
Ah, the quest for the most enchanting scent in the lavender kingdom!
When it comes to the best smelling lavender plant, we have some top contenders to explore.
“In spring’s embrace, Lavender sways,
Its fragrant whispers fill the days.
Amidst the blooms, a soothing balm,
Lavender’s beauty, a tranquil calm.”
Munstead Lavender Care
This lovely herb is a delight to grow and maintain.
Let’s explore some tips and tricks to ensure your Munstead lavender thrives and brings beauty to your garden!
Light
As a Mediterranean native, Munstead lavender requires six to eight hours of full sun daily to thrive.
When keeping them in pots indoors, ensure they receive adequate sunlight, as insufficient exposure can weaken the plant.
Soil
Munstead lavender thrives in alkaline soil conditions and prefers sandy, moderately fertile soil with good drainage, such as shallow rocky soil.
It’s crucial to avoid overly rich, damp, or soggy soil, as these conditions can be detrimental to the plant’s health and growth.
Water
Once established, ‘Munstead’ lavender can withstand droughts to some extent.
After planting, water it frequently to maintain an even moisture level in the soil during the first growing season.
After that, this plant usually doesn’t require any additional watering.
The only exception is if there is a drought when the flower buds are developing.
Temperature and Humidity
Munstead lavender thrives in temperatures ranging from 70 to 75°F, making it suitable for USDA zones 5 to 9.
However, it’s crucial to note its sensitivity to high humidity.
To prevent issues, especially in humid climates, consider using a dehumidifier to maintain optimal moisture levels.
Fortunately, Munstead is resilient to cold temperatures and can withstand winter conditions as long as temperatures do not drop below -10°F.
Fertilizer
Lavender doesn’t actually need it! In fact, excessive fertilizer and overly rich soil can harm the plant rather than benefit it.
During my trip to Toronto (Canada) last summer, I was amazed to see lavender growing effortlessly along the streets, just like wild grass.
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No one tended to them, yet they flourished vigorously, almost like invasive grasses.
I even had the opportunity to harvest some as souvenirs!
Surprisingly, nobody seemed to mind as I collected lavender growing along the streets.
You’d think environmental personnel might step in, right?
But nope, they didn’t seem to care.
In fact, they appeared pleased that someone was tidying up the “wild grasses” for them.
It’s a testament to how Munstead lavender can thrive with minimal intervention, so it’s best to let it grow naturally without too much fuss.
Pruning Munstead Lavender
Timing: Prune your Munstead lavender in early spring or right after the blooming season.
Assess the plant: Take a close look and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Trim spent flowers: Using clean and sharp pruning shears, trim back the spent flowers. Cut the stems just above the next set of healthy leaves or growth nodes.
Shape the plant: Lightly prune the outer edges of the plant. Trim back any long or unruly branches to encourage a bushier and more uniform appearance.
Avoid cutting old wood: Be cautious not to cut into the woody part of the plant, as this can hinder new growth. Focus on pruning the green plants.
Clean up: Once you have finished pruning, do away with any fallen leaves or particles around the base of the plant.
Remember, Munstead lavender is a resilient plant, but it’s always a good idea to take care not to prune too aggressively.
How To Plant Munstead Lavender from Seed
Growing Munstead Lavender from seeds is a rewarding journey for any gardener.
You can begin germinating the seeds at any time of the year, but the key factor is maintaining the right temperature in the seed tray, ideally between 59 to 68°F.
Cold Stratifying
Stratification is a simple process that involves giving seeds a cool stimulation, which can be achieved by refrigeration.
To stratify Munstead Lavender seeds, place them in moist soil and then transfer the pot to the refrigerator for 3-6 weeks before planting.
It’s important to cover the pot with a lid, but ensure that excessive moisture is not trapped inside, as it can lead to mold growth and damage the seeds—a lesson I learned the hard way.
Germinate Indoors
After stratifying the seeds, sow them about 1/8″ deep in moistened, well-draining soil.
Ensure they are not buried too deep, as they require light to germinate.
Seedlings typically emerge within 2 to 3 weeks.
Provide ample daylight throughout the day and maintain a temperature of 65–70°F in the growing area.
And for better success, I always recommend waiting for the seedlings to sprout indoors.
Outdoor temperature fluctuations can be quite unpredictable and may hinder their growth.
Provide Moisture
Seeds require moisture to germinate, so remember to mist them daily.
However, be cautious not to overdo it, as excess moisture can lead to mold growth, which is detrimental to our precious lavender.
Gradual Acclimation
Before planting them outdoors, gradually expose the seedlings to outdoor conditions over a period of a few weeks, starting with short periods of time and increasing daily.
Number One Key
It’s always worth investing in quality seeds from reputable sellers.
I learned this the hard way when I tried to cut corners and ended up with nothing but frustration.
Trust me, it’s not worth the headache!
So, if you’re serious about successfully growing Munstead lavender from seeds, don’t skimp on finding a reliable seller.
How To Plant Munstead Lavender from Cuttings
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you successfully root and grow your cuttings:
Gather supplies: Prepare clean pruning shears, a well-draining potting mix, small containers, a rooting hormone (optional), and a spray bottle filled with water.
Step 1
Select healthy cuttings: Choose non-flowering shoots from a healthy Munstead lavender plant. Cut 4-6 inch stems just below a leaf node, ensuring they are fresh and vigorous.
Step 2
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Prepare the cuttings: Remove the lower leaves from the bottom part of the stem. Dip the cut end in a rooting hormone powder or gel (optional) to enhance root development.
Step 3
Potting mix and planting: Fill containers with well-draining potting mix. Create holes using a pencil or finger and gently insert the cuttings, burying the bottom nodes in the soil.
Step 4
Mist and cover: Mist the soil to settle it around the cuttings, and cover the containers with plastic bags or clear domes to create a humid environment that aids rooting.
Step 5
Provide light and warmth: Place the containers in a warm location with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the cuttings.
Step 6
Mist regularly: Check the cuttings frequently to ensure the soil remains slightly moist. Mist the cuttings and inside the covers to maintain high humidity.
Step 7
Transplanting: Once roots have developed, carefully transplant the rooted cuttings into individual pots or your garden, ensuring they have adequate space and well-draining soil.
How to Care For Munstead Lavender Plant In Pots
Caring for your Munstead lavender plant in pots is a breeze!
Just ensure they get plenty of sunlight, use well-draining soil, water when the top inch of soil is dry, and provide occasional pruning.
Watch your lavender thrive and enjoy its beauty right on your patio!
Potting & Repotting
Start by selecting a well-draining pot with ample drainage holes.
Fill it with a quality potting mix.
Gently transplant your lavender, ensuring the roots are covered but not buried too deep.
If your lavender outgrows its pot, don’t fret!
Simply repot it into a slightly larger container, providing more room for its roots to spread.
Overwintering
Overwintering your beloved lavender is like tucking it in for a cozy nap!
As the cold weather approaches, provide a protective blanket of mulch around the base, such as straw or evergreen boughs.
If your lavender is in a pot, consider moving it to a sheltered location or wrapping it with burlap for added insulation.
Remember to reduce watering during the winter to prevent root rot.
With a little extra care, your lavender will snuggle through the winter and emerge even more vibrant in the spring. Sweet dreams, lavender!
How To Keep Munstead Lavender Blooming?
Keeping your Munstead lavender blooming is a delightful goal!
To achieve this, ensure it receives plenty of sunlight, ideally 6-8 hours a day.
Provide well-draining soil and water consistently but avoid overwatering.
Regularly deadhead faded blooms to encourage new flower production.
Give it a light trim after blooming to promote bushier growth.
And don’t forget to show some love with organic fertilizer once or twice a year.
How to Plant Munstead Lavender: Recap
In summary, here’s a concise guide to planting Munstead lavender and important details to consider.
We hope with this journey on how to plant Munstead lavender in well-draining soil with ample sunlight, you have learned about its blooming season during summer, adding beauty and fragrance to your garden.
Give you and your loved ones the chance to explore the most fragrant lavender options, including the darkest purple lavender and Lavandin.
Compare Munstead lavender to its close cousin, Hidcote lavender, known for its compact growth.
Appreciate Munstead lavender as a delightful representative of English lavender’s charm and versatility.
How To Plant Munstead Lavender FAQs
Does Munstead lavender come back every year?
Yes, Munstead lavender is a perennial plant, meaning it comes back year after year.
What is the difference between true lavender and Munstead lavender?
Munstead lavender is sincerely a kind of true lavender, especially a cultivar of Lavandula angustifolia. It shares many traits with different types of lavender but has its very own precise qualities.
How long can Munstead lavender live?
With proper care, Munstead lavender can live for several years, typically around 10 to 15 years. However, its lifespan can vary depending on factors like growing conditions and maintenance.
Where should I place ‘Munstead’ lavender in my home?
Munstead lavender prospers in complete sunlight, so region it in a place in which it could receive at least six to eight hours of direct daylight each day.
Is Munstead Lavender Edible?
Munstead lavender is not only a beautiful addition to your garden but also offers a delightful aroma. Its fragrant blooms can be harvested for various culinary uses, including lavender-infused honey, potpourri, and soothing lavender sachets.
Source: https://thelittle.garden
Category: Houseplants