Lavender Plant Pruning Seeds:
Guide to Storing, Sowing and Germination

Introduction

Lavender plants are not only known for their beautiful purple flowers and delightful fragrance but also for their numerous health benefits. If you have a lavender plant in your garden, you may want to consider pruning it to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. But what should you do with the pruning seeds? In this article, we will guide you through the process of storing, sowing, and germinating lavender plant pruning seeds.

Storing Lavender Plant Pruning Seeds

Before diving into the process of sowing and germinating lavender plant pruning seeds, let’s first discuss how to properly store them. Storing the seeds correctly is crucial for their viability and future growth.

1. Harvesting the Seeds: The first step is to harvest the seeds from the lavender plant. Wait until the flowers have fully bloomed and started to fade. Once they have turned brown, carefully remove them from the plant by gently rubbing the seed heads between your fingers or using a pair of scissors.

2. Drying the Seeds: After harvesting, spread the seeds out on a clean paper towel or plate. Place them in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Allow the seeds to air dry for about one to two weeks until they become brittle. This drying process ensures that any remaining moisture in the seeds evaporates, preventing mold or rot during storage.

3. Proper Storage Containers: Once the seeds have dried completely, transfer them to airtight containers such as glass jars or resealable plastic bags. Make sure these containers are clean and dry before use. Label each container with the date of harvest and the lavender variety to keep track of different seed batches.

4. Ideal Storage Conditions: Store the containers in a cool, dark place with low humidity levels, such as a pantry or cellar. The ideal temperature for storing lavender seeds is between 32-41°F (0-5°C). It is important to avoid exposing the seeds to extreme temperatures or fluctuations, as this can reduce their viability.

Sowing Lavender Plant Pruning Seeds

Now that you have stored your lavender plant pruning seeds properly, it’s time to sow them. Follow these steps to ensure successful germination:

1. Preparing the Seed Trays: Fill clean seed trays or small pots with a well-draining potting mix. Lavender plants prefer slightly alkaline soil, so adding some lime or crushed eggshells to the mix can help create the ideal pH level. Moisten the soil before sowing the seeds.

2. Sowing the Seeds: Sprinkle the lavender seeds evenly over the surface of the soil. Lightly press them into the soil using your fingertips, ensuring they are in good contact with the moist soil. Avoid burying the seeds too deeply, as lavender requires light for germination.

3. Covering and Watering: After sowing, cover the trays with a thin layer of vermiculite or fine sand to help retain moisture and prevent the seeds from drying out. Gently water the trays using a misting spray bottle or a watering can with a fine rose attachment. Be careful not to overwater, as excessive moisture can lead to damping-off disease.

4. Providing Optimal Conditions: Place the trays in a warm location where they can receive indirect sunlight or under grow lights. The ideal temperature for lavender seed germination is around 70-75°F (21-24°C). Mist the trays regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.

Germinating Lavender Plant Pruning Seeds

Germinating lavender plant pruning seeds requires patience and proper care. Follow these tips to increase your success rate:

1. Germination Period: Lavender seeds typically take around 14-28 days to germinate, although some varieties may take longer. Be patient and continue to provide the optimal conditions mentioned earlier.

2. Transplanting: When the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, they are ready to be transplanted into individual pots or a larger container. Carefully lift the seedlings using a small spoon or transplanting tool, making sure to disturb the roots as little as possible. Plant them at the same depth they were in the seed trays.

3. Hardening Off: Before permanently planting the lavender seedlings outdoors, they need to be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions. Start by placing them in a sheltered location for a few hours each day, gradually increasing their exposure to direct sunlight and outdoor temperatures over a period of one to two weeks.

4. Planting Outdoors: Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining soil. Lavender plants thrive in full sun and require good air circulation. Space the plants at least 12-18 inches apart, as they can spread quite wide when fully grown.

Conclusion

Pruning your lavender plant not only helps maintain its shape but also provides an opportunity to collect and grow new plants from the pruning seeds. By properly storing, sowing, and germinating these seeds, you can enjoy an abundance of lavender plants in your garden and reap their many benefits. Follow the steps outlined in this guide and get ready to enjoy the beauty and fragrance of your very own lavender plants.