How to Grow Lavender Plant Indoors

Introduction

Lavender is a beautiful and fragrant herb that is commonly grown outdoors in gardens. However, with the right conditions and care, it is also possible to grow lavender plants indoors. If you have limited outdoor space or live in an apartment, growing lavender indoors can be a great way to enjoy the beauty and aroma of this versatile plant. In this article, we will discuss the steps to successfully grow lavender plant indoors.

Selecting the Right Variety

Not all lavender varieties are suitable for indoor cultivation. Some varieties are more compact and better suited for container gardening. When selecting a lavender variety for indoor growing, look for ones that are known for their compact growth habit and adaptability to container culture. Some popular indoor-friendly lavender varieties include ‘Munstead,’ ‘Hidcote,’ and ‘Thumbelina Leigh.’

Choosing the Right Container

Choosing the right container is crucial for successful indoor lavender cultivation. Lavender plants prefer well-draining soil, so make sure your container has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging. A pot with a diameter of at least 12 inches is recommended to accommodate the plant’s root system.

Soil and Potting Mix

Lavender plants thrive in well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. A good potting mix for lavender can be made by combining equal parts of regular potting soil, perlite, and coarse sand. This mixture provides excellent drainage while retaining enough moisture for the plant’s roots.

Planting Lavender Seeds or Cuttings

There are two common methods for starting lavender plants indoors: using seeds or cuttings.

Seeds: If you decide to grow lavender from seeds, start by filling your container with the potting mix mentioned earlier. Moisten the soil before planting the seeds, but make sure it is not overly wet. Scatter the seeds on the soil surface and lightly press them down. Cover the container with a plastic wrap to create a greenhouse effect and place it in a warm area with indirect sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not soggy until the seeds germinate, which typically takes 2-3 weeks.

Cuttings: Growing lavender from cuttings is another popular method. Take 3-4 inch cuttings from a healthy lavender plant, making sure to include a node or leaf joint at the base of each cutting. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip it in a rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth. Plant the cuttings in well-draining potting mix, water thoroughly, and place them in a warm location with bright, indirect light. Mist the cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and prevent them from drying out. Rooting should occur within 2-4 weeks.

Light Requirements

Lavender plants require plenty of sunlight to thrive indoors. Place your potted lavender plant near a south-facing window where it can receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. If natural light is insufficient, you can supplement it with grow lights. Position the lights about 12 inches above the plant and keep them on for 12-14 hours each day.

Watering and Humidity

Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes when growing lavender indoors. Lavender plants prefer drier conditions, so it’s important to avoid keeping their roots constantly wet. Water your lavender plant thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch but make sure excess water drains out of the pot. Avoid misting the foliage as it can lead to fungal diseases.

Maintaining proper humidity levels is also crucial for indoor lavender cultivation. Lavender plants prefer low humidity, so if you live in a humid climate, consider using a dehumidifier or placing the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water. This will create a humid microclimate around the plant while keeping the surrounding air dry.

Pruning and Harvesting

Regular pruning is essential for maintaining compact and bushy lavender plants indoors. After your lavender plant has established a strong root system, pinch off the top inch of new growth every few weeks to encourage branching. This will result in a fuller and more attractive plant.

Lavender flowers can be harvested once they are fully open. Cut the flower stems just above a leaf node, making sure to leave some foliage on the plant for continued growth. To dry lavender flowers for culinary or decorative purposes, bundle a few stems together and hang them upside down in a cool, dry location.

Pests and Diseases

Lavender plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but indoor-grown lavender may still encounter some issues. Common pests that can affect lavender include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Regularly inspect your plants for any signs of infestation and treat them with organic insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.

Overwatering and high humidity can lead to root rot and fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. Avoid overwatering your lavender plants and provide adequate air circulation to prevent these problems.

Conclusion

Growing lavender indoors can be a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy the beauty and fragrance of this versatile herb year-round. By selecting the right variety, providing proper care, and creating the ideal growing conditions, you can successfully grow lavender plants indoors. So why not bring a touch of Provence into your home with an indoor lavender garden?