Learn how to plant lavender seeds the right way. Discover when to start, how to germinate seeds fast, and how to grow English lavender indoors or outdoors with expert tips.
Hi, I’m Ashley Scott. I’ve been gardening for over 10 years, and lavender is one of my favorite plants to grow. Many people find it tricky to start lavender from seed, but it’s easy when you understand what the plant needs. In this guide, I’ll show you how to plant lavender seeds step by step, whether you’re growing in pots, in the ground, or indoors.
Why Grow Lavender from Seeds?
Buying established lavender plants can cost $10 to $20 each. Growing from seed costs less than $5 for hundreds of seeds. You can find English lavender seeds online or at garden centers.
Growing from seed lets you:
- Control soil quality and growing conditions
- Save money on large plantings
- Enjoy a longer blooming season
Best Time to Plant Lavender Seeds
Lavender needs warmth and light to sprout. You can start seeds indoors 10–12 weeks before your last frost date. In most U.S. regions, that’s late winter or early spring.
If you’re planting outdoors, wait until soil temperatures reach at least 60°F (15°C) and there’s no frost risk.
You can check your local frost dates using resources like the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map.
What You’ll Need
Here’s a short checklist to get started:
- Lavender seeds (English lavender is the easiest for beginners)
- Seed trays or small pots
- Well-draining seed-starting mix
- Spray bottle with water
- Plastic dome or clear cover
- Grow lights or a sunny window
- Heat mat (optional but helps germination)
Step 1: Prepare the Seeds (Cold Stratification)
Lavender seeds germinate slowly. To speed them up, you need to cold-stratify them.
Here’s how:
- Place seeds in a damp paper towel.
- Put the towel in a ziplock bag.
- Store it in your refrigerator for 2–4 weeks.
- Check weekly to ensure the towel stays slightly moist.
This mimics winter conditions and improves germination.
For more details, you can read about seed stratification at University of Florida IFAS Extension.
Step 2: Fill Containers with Soil
Use a light, well-draining seed-starting mix. Avoid heavy garden soil. Lavender prefers neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.5–7.5).
I use a mix of:
- 60% seed-starting soil
- 20% perlite
- 20% coarse sand
This combination prevents root rot and gives roots oxygen.
You can read my guide on The Best Containers for Successful Propagation for choosing the right seed trays or pots.
Step 3: Sow the Lavender Seeds
- Sprinkle seeds on top of the soil.
- Gently press them in, don’t bury deeply. Lavender seeds need light to germinate.
- Mist the surface with water.
- Cover the tray with a clear lid or plastic wrap to hold moisture.
Keep them in a warm spot (70°F to 75°F). A seedling heat mat helps maintain steady warmth.
Step 4: Light and Watering
Lavender seedlings need bright light for 12–14 hours daily. If your windows don’t get enough sun, use LED grow lights.
Water lightly every few days. Keep the soil moist, not wet. Overwatering can cause damping-off disease.
If you’re starting indoors, see my article on How to Grow Lavender from Seed Indoors for more setup tips.
Step 5: Germination Time
Lavender seeds take 14–30 days to sprout. Be patient. Some may take up to a month.
If you want to speed things up, you can try pre-soaking the seeds in warm water for 24 hours before sowing. This softens the seed coat and encourages faster germination.
This method is also explained by North Carolina State Extension.
Step 6: Transplanting Seedlings
Once seedlings have two sets of true leaves, they’re ready to move into larger pots.
Transplant carefully to avoid damaging roots.
Use a well-draining potting mix made for herbs or Mediterranean plants. Keep pots in a sunny area and water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Read about The Best Herbs to Grow in a Small Kitchen for more container gardening ideas.
Step 7: Hardening Off Plants
Before moving seedlings outdoors, harden them off.
- Start by placing them outside for 2 hours daily.
- Gradually increase time outdoors over a week.
- Protect from wind and direct afternoon sun.
This helps the plants adjust to temperature changes.
Step 8: How to Plant Lavender Seeds in Pots
If you’re growing in containers, choose pots at least 12 inches wide with drainage holes.
Use a mix of:
- Potting soil
- Perlite or coarse sand
- A small handful of lime for alkalinity
Place the pots where they’ll get 6–8 hours of full sun daily.
Water only when the top inch of soil is dry. Lavender hates wet feet.
You can find step-by-step guidance in my post on How to Start a Kitchen Herb Garden in Jars.
Step 9: How to Plant Lavender Seeds in the Ground
Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Clay soil is a problem, so mix in coarse sand or small gravel before planting.
Plant seeds or seedlings 12–18 inches apart to allow air circulation.
Avoid fertilizers during the first few months. Lavender thrives in lean soil. Too much nitrogen makes plants weak and less fragrant.
Step 10: How to Plant Lavender Seeds in Water
Lavender doesn’t grow directly in water, but you can root lavender cuttings in water before planting. However, seeds won’t germinate this way.
If you want to try hydroponic lavender, use rockwool cubes and a nutrient solution with good aeration. Still, soil remains the easiest and most reliable method for seed germination.
For rooting methods, you can visit University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources.
Step 11: Caring for Young Plants
Once established, lavender is drought-tolerant, but seedlings need steady moisture at first.
Here’s what to do:
- Water only when the soil dries out.
- Ensure pots drain fully after watering.
- Trim the first flower buds to encourage stronger roots.
- Watch for pests like aphids and whiteflies.
For pest control tips, read my guide on Tree Bugs and How to Deal with Them.
Step 12: When and How to Harvest Lavender Seeds
Lavender blooms in late spring to early summer. Once flowers dry, you can collect lavender seeds for future planting.
How to collect:
- Let the flowers dry fully on the plant.
- Rub the heads gently to release seeds.
- Store them in paper envelopes in a cool, dry place.
Properly stored lavender seeds can stay viable for up to 5 years.
You can compare seed prices on online stores or check local garden centers. Lavender seeds price varies from $3 to $8 per packet, depending on variety.
Common Problems When Growing Lavender from Seed
Here are the most common mistakes and fixes:
| Problem | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Seeds not sprouting | No cold stratification | Refrigerate seeds 2–4 weeks |
| Yellow leaves | Overwatering | Let soil dry before watering |
| Weak stems | Low light | Use grow lights |
| Mold on soil | Poor air flow | Remove cover and increase ventilation |
Fertilizing and Pruning Lavender
Lavender grows best without much fertilizer. Once your plants mature, you can feed them once in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Prune after flowering to shape the plant and encourage new growth. Don’t cut into old wood.
Best Lavender Varieties to Grow from Seed
If you’re unsure which type to grow, start with these:
- English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): Hardy and fragrant, ideal for cold climates.
- French Lavender (Lavandula dentata): Best for warm regions, long bloom time.
- Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia): Hybrid with strong scent, great for essential oils.
English lavender is most popular in the U.S. for its cold tolerance and fragrance.
Companion Plants for Lavender
Lavender grows well with other drought-tolerant plants. You can plant it near:
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Thyme
- Yarrow
- Echinacea
These herbs attract pollinators and improve garden diversity. Learn more about combining plants in my article 20 Small White Flowers: Names and Pictures.
Storing and Using Dried Lavender
Once lavender blooms, you can harvest and dry it easily.
- Cut flower spikes early in the morning.
- Hang them upside down in a dry, dark place for 1–2 weeks.
- Store in airtight containers.
You can use dried lavender in sachets, teas, or homemade oils.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to germinate lavender seeds?
Cold-stratify for 3 weeks, soak seeds in warm water overnight, and use a heat mat. This method can cut germination time to about 10–14 days.
Can you plant lavender seeds directly in the ground?
Yes, but it works best in warm regions. Soil must stay above 60°F and drain well.
How long does it take lavender to grow from seed?
From seed to transplant size, it takes 3–4 months. Full blooming may take 1 year.
Can lavender grow indoors?
Yes. Place it in a south-facing window or under LED grow lights. Keep air dry and soil slightly moist.
Related Reading on My Site
- How to Grow Tomatoes in Pots for a Juicy Harvest
- When Frost Strikes: How to Protect Your Garden During a Freeze Warning
- The Best Plants for Hummingbirds
- 8 Types of Orchid Trees
- Stunning Purple Perennials
Expert Tip
Always check the seed packet. Some lavender hybrids don’t produce true seeds or may not grow identical to the parent plant. For consistent results, stick to English lavender seeds labeled for high germination rates.
Final Thoughts
Growing lavender from seed takes patience, but it’s worth the effort. Once established, it fills your garden with fragrance, color, and pollinators. Start with a small tray, follow these steps, and you’ll have strong lavender plants ready to bloom next season.
If you want more growing guides, visit my site USA Garden Hub for detailed plant care articles, propagation tips, and container gardening ideas.
