This calming plant can actually blossom in many front yards with proper care.
These native Mediterranean plants are popular in gardens throughout the world.
French lavender’s signature calming scent is often used in essential oils and perfumes.
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This fringed look makes the plant stand out from other lavender varieties.
Here’s how to grow and maintain French lavender in your own front yard.
Growing Conditions
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French lavender flourishes in sunny, dry conditions with alkaline soil.
Mariia Demchenko/Getty Images
The plants need well-draining soil and plenty of sunshine.
The pastel purpleblooms appear year-roundin warm climates and from spring to fall in cooler temperatures.
French lavender is a hardy plant that can last years in sunny, dry conditions.
Soil and Fertilization
When planting French lavender, use neutral or alkaline soil with poor nutrients.
French lavender does not do well in nutrient-rich soil, so fertilization is unnecessary.
If youre concerned that your soil needs more drainage, add gravel mulch to the top of your soil.
Plant your French lavender in the spring, before summers heat, but after winter frost.
Overwatering in the summer is definitely something to avoid, says garden designer Michele Chambliss, an ASHS-certified horticulturist.
In areas with higher rainfall, planting on a berm with a gravel mulch might help with drainage.
Lavender roots sitting in warm, wet soil may rot.
French lavender requires an annual pruning to keep your plants looking their best.
If you live in a temperate climate with cold winters, prune your plants in early spring.
For warm temperatures with year-round blooms, prune in late summer to early fall.
In mild climates, French lavender can bloom year-round, Heinrich says.
This can make it slightly confusing about when you should prune.
Refrain from making drastic cuts because French lavender will not grow back from old wood.
Common Pests and Diseases
French lavender is hardy and resistant to many pests.
Powdery mildew is another issue that can arise for French lavender in humid climates or with wet soil.
Ensure you have well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent powdery mildew.
