Best Planter For Lavender: Calming & Aromatic (2024)

When it comes to growing lavender, choosing the right planter is essential. The best planter for lavender will provide the perfect environment for this calming and aromatic herb to thrive. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the top-rated lavender planters that are both high-quality and stylish. In this article, I will guide you through the factors to consider when selecting the best planter for lavender and provide recommendations based on durability and design.

Key Takeaways:

• Consider the size, style, material, and weight of the planter when choosing the best one for lavender plants.
• Container size is crucial for lavender’s growth and productivity; different lavender varieties require different pot sizes.
• Terracotta, glazed ceramic, plastic, wooden, and concrete are common materials for lavender planters, each with its own pros and cons.
• Proper care and maintenance, including watering, feeding, pruning, and providing good air circulation, are essential for lavender’s healthy growth in containers.
• There are various benefits and uses of lavender, including culinary, cosmetic, and aesthetic purposes.

Choosing the Right Size Container for Lavender Planters

When it comes to growing lavender in containers, choosing the right size container is essential for the plant’s overall health and productivity. Lavender plants require enough space for their roots to develop and thrive, as well as ample room for the plant to grow and produce an abundance of fragrant flowers.

Depending on the specific type of lavender you are growing, the container size will vary. Larger varieties, such as pepper, summer squash, and cucumber plants, require a 24-inch diameter pot to accommodate their size. On the other hand, smaller herbs and vegetables like lettuce and strawberries can thrive in a 10-inch diameter pot.

To ensure successful growth, it is important to select a container that allows for adequate space for the lavender plant. A pot that is too small can restrict root growth and lead to stunted plants, while a pot that is too large can result in excessive moisture retention and poor drainage. Proper drainage is crucial for lavender plants, as they are prone to root rot if their roots are constantly sitting in water.

Choosing the Right Size Container for Lavender Planters

Lavender Variety	Container Size
Pepper, Summer Squash, Cucumber Plants	24-inch diameter pot
Lettuce, Strawberries, Small Herbs	10-inch diameter pot

By selecting the appropriate container size for your lavender plant, you can ensure healthy growth, vibrant blooms, and a beautiful addition to your garden or outdoor space.

Considerations for Container Material in Lavender Planters

When it comes to choosing the perfect container for your lavender plants, the material of the planter plays a crucial role in their growth and overall aesthetic appeal. Each material has its own advantages and considerations that you should keep in mind while making your selection. Let’s take a closer look at some popular container materials for lavender planters:

Terracotta Pots

Terracotta pots are a classic choice for lavender planters. They are not only affordable but also add a rustic and natural look to your garden. However, it’s important to note that terracotta pots can be heavy and prone to breaking, so you need to handle them with care. Additionally, these pots may require more frequent watering as they tend to dry out faster.

Glazed Ceramic Containers

Glazed ceramic containers offer a wide variety of colors and designs, making them a popular choice for those looking to add some decorative flair to their lavender planters. These containers are fairly winter-hardy and can withstand harsh weather conditions. However, they can be quite heavy and may come with a higher price tag.

Plastic Containers

For those on a budget, plastic containers are an excellent choice. They are affordable, lightweight, and come in a range of sizes and styles. Plastic containers are also highly durable and require minimal maintenance. However, keep in mind that they may not offer the same level of aesthetic appeal as terracotta or glazed ceramic containers.

Wooden Containers and Half Barrels

If you prefer a more natural and rustic look, wooden containers and half barrels can be a great choice for your lavender planters. These containers blend seamlessly into any garden setting and provide a charming aesthetic. However, it’s important to note that wooden containers can be difficult to move as they age, so make sure to choose a spot where you can keep them for a longer duration.

Concrete Pots

When it comes to durability, concrete pots are unmatched. These heavy containers are built to last and can withstand even the harshest weather conditions. However, due to their weight, they may require a permanent spot in your garden. Concrete pots are excellent for creating a statement piece or adding a touch of elegance to your lavender planters.

Consider factors such as aesthetics, durability, and cost when choosing the right container material for your lavender planters. Each material has its own unique charm and considerations, so pick the one that suits your style and requirements best.

Tips for Growing Lavender in Containers

Growing lavender in containers can be a rewarding experience, bringing the calming and aromatic beauty of this versatile plant to your outdoor spaces. To ensure the successful growth of lavender plants, there are several important tips to keep in mind.

Choose the Right Container

When selecting a planter for lavender, opt for a container that provides adequate space for the plant’s root system. Lavender plants have a shrub-like form and can grow to be 12-24 inches tall, so a medium to large-sized pot is ideal. Additionally, make sure the container has good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Plastic, terracotta, or glazed ceramic pots are excellent choices for lavender as they are lightweight, durable, and provide good drainage.

Ensure Proper Sunlight and Soil

Lavender thrives in full sunlight, so choose a location for your container that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The soil should be well-draining and slightly alkaline with a pH between 6.7 and 7.3. You can improve soil drainage by adding perlite or sand to the potting mix. Avoid over-watering the plants, as lavender prefers slightly drier conditions.

Prune and Harvest Regularly

Regular pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and health of lavender plants. After the first bloom, trim back the spent flowers by cutting just above a set of leaves. This will promote further blooming and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy. When harvesting lavender stems for culinary or decorative purposes, cut the stems just as the flowers begin to open fully. Be sure not to harvest more than one-third of the plant at a time to avoid stressing it excessively.

Protect from Winter Conditions

In colder climates, it’s important to protect lavender plants from harsh winter conditions. Consider moving the container to a sheltered area, such as a garage or porch, during the winter months. Alternatively, you can wrap the container with burlap or bubble wrap to insulate the roots and prevent freeze-thaw damage. Mulching the soil with a layer of straw or compost can also help to protect the plant’s root system.

Tip	Description
Choose the Right Container	Opt for a medium to large-sized pot with good drainage holes.
Ensure Proper Sunlight and Soil	Place the container in a sunny location and use well-draining, slightly alkaline soil.
Prune and Harvest Regularly	Trim back spent flowers and harvest lavender stems at the right time.
Protect from Winter Conditions	Mitigate cold damage by moving the container or providing insulation.

Lavender Planting and Care in Containers

When it comes to planting and caring for lavender in containers, there are a few essential factors to consider. The right soil, proper spacing, and adequate watering are crucial for the successful growth of lavender plants.

Soil Requirements:

Lavender thrives in well-drained soil with a slightly alkaline pH between 6.7 and 7.3. To ensure proper drainage, you can add builder’s sand to the soil or opt for a raised bed filled with premium raised bed soil. This will prevent the roots from becoming waterlogged and promote healthy growth.

Spacing:

When planting lavender in containers, it’s important to provide enough space for each plant to grow. Space the plants 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for proper airflow and sunlight penetration. This will help prevent issues like fungal diseases and ensure that each plant receives the necessary nutrients.

Watering:

Lavender plants have a low water requirement and are drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the top few inches of soil to dry out before watering again. Over-watering can lead to root rot and other problems, so it’s important to strike the right balance.

By following these planting and care guidelines, you can create an ideal environment for lavender to thrive in containers. Remember to choose a planter that provides adequate space for growth and good drainage. With the right care and attention, your lavender plants will reward you with their beautiful fragrance and vibrant blooms.

Troubleshooting Lavender Growth in Containers

Growing lavender in containers can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. To ensure the healthy growth of lavender in containers, it is important to address common issues and provide the necessary care and maintenance. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you overcome potential obstacles:

Overwatering and Drainage

One of the most common mistakes when growing lavender in containers is overwatering. Lavender plants prefer dry conditions and have low water requirements. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. To avoid this, make sure your container has adequate drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix. Water your lavender plants only when the top inch of soil feels dry, and avoid wetting the foliage to prevent disease.

Fungal Diseases

In hot and humid conditions, lavender plants are susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew and root rot. To minimize the chances of fungal issues, provide good air circulation by spacing your containers apart and avoiding overcrowding. You can also mulch the soil with pebbles or sand to promote faster evaporation and prevent moisture buildup. If you notice any signs of fungal disease, such as white powdery patches or wilting leaves, treat your plants with a suitable fungicide following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Pruning and Air Circulation

Proper pruning is essential to promote better air circulation and prevent the leaves of your lavender plants from turning brown. Prune your lavender plants after they finish blooming and in late winter or early spring. Remove any dead or diseased branches, and lightly trim the overall shape of the plant to encourage branching and new growth. This will help improve air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

By addressing these common issues and following proper care and maintenance practices, you can troubleshoot and overcome potential challenges when growing lavender in containers. Remember to provide good drainage, avoid overwatering, promote air circulation, and be mindful of potential fungal diseases. With the right approach, you can enjoy healthy and thriving lavender plants in your container garden.

Benefits and Uses of Lavender

Lavender is a versatile plant that offers numerous benefits and a wide range of uses. From its fragrant foliage to its delightful flower spikes, lavender is prized for its beauty, aroma, and therapeutic properties.

One of the key benefits of lavender is its culinary use. The flowers can be harvested and used fresh or dried to add a delicate floral flavor to various dishes. Lavender-infused breads, pastries, and desserts are a delightful treat that can elevate any culinary creation.

Furthermore, lavender essential oil is widely used in the production of perfumes, soaps, lotions, and sachets. Its aromatic properties make it a popular choice for creating soothing and relaxing scents. Lavender’s calming fragrance is known to promote restful sleep, reduce anxiety, and provide overall relaxation.

In addition to its culinary and aromatic uses, lavender is also highly valued for its visual appeal and ability to attract pollinators. Its vibrant purple flowers and silver-gray foliage make it a beautiful addition to gardens, borders, and containers. Bees and butterflies are especially drawn to lavender, making it an excellent choice for supporting pollinator populations.

Overall, lavender offers a multitude of benefits and uses that make it a must-have plant for any garden or home. Whether it’s for culinary purposes, aromatherapy, or simply to enhance the beauty of your space, lavender is a versatile and high-quality plant that is sure to delight the senses.

Table: Uses of Lavender

Use	Description
Culinary	Harvested flowers can be used fresh or dried to add flavor to breads, pastries, and desserts.
Aromatherapy	Lavender essential oil is commonly used in perfumes, soaps, lotions, and sachets for its calming and relaxing properties.
Garden Beauty	Lavender’s vibrant flowers and silver-gray foliage make it a stunning addition to gardens, borders, and containers.
Pollinator Attraction	Bees and butterflies are drawn to lavender, making it an excellent choice for supporting pollinator populations.

Recommended Lavender Varieties for Container Gardening

When it comes to growing lavender in containers, selecting the right variety is essential for success. Different lavender varieties offer unique characteristics and thrive in different growing conditions. Below are some recommended lavender varieties that are well-suited for container gardening:

English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

English lavender is a popular choice for container gardening due to its compact size and delightful fragrance. One recommended variety is the ‘Royal Velvet’ cultivar. It produces vibrant purple flowers and has excellent oil content, making it ideal for culinary uses and aromatherapy.

Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas)

Spanish lavender is known for its showy bracts, which resemble bunny ears. It is heat-loving and highly attractive to pollinators. The ‘With Love’ cultivar is a recommended choice for container gardening. It produces stunning purple flowers and has a unique fragrance that adds charm to any outdoor space.

French Lavender (Lavandula dentata)

French lavender is a larger lavender species that adds a touch of elegance to container gardens. It features soft, fragrant foliage and long-lasting blooms. The ‘Provence’ cultivar is highly valued for its beautiful lavender flowers and exceptional fragrance. French lavender is perfect for those who want a larger lavender variety in their container garden.

Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia)

Lavandin, a hybrid of English and spike lavender, is a popular choice for its fragrance, beauty, and larger leaf size. The ‘Provence’ cultivar of lavandin is highly recommended for container gardening. It produces abundant blooms with a rich lavender scent, making it a favorite among lavender lovers.

When selecting a lavender variety for your container garden, consider factors such as desired fragrance, size, and growing conditions. Each of these recommended lavender varieties offers its own unique qualities and benefits, adding beauty and serenity to your outdoor space.

Lavender Variety	Cultivar	Characteristics
English Lavender	Royal Velvet	Compact size, vibrant purple flowers, excellent oil content
Spanish Lavender	With Love	Showy bracts, heat-loving, attractive to pollinators
French Lavender	Provence	Soft, fragrant foliage, long-lasting blooms
Lavandin	Provence	Fragrant, large leaves, abundant blooms

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the best planter for lavender is essential for successful container gardening. By considering factors such as size, material, and care requirements, you can create the perfect environment for your lavender plants to thrive.

A top-rated lavender planter should provide adequate space for the plant’s growth, allowing room for healthy root development and abundant flower production. Additionally, a durable lavender planter with proper drainage and good air circulation will help prevent issues like over-watering and fungal diseases.

Whether you opt for an elegant terracotta pot, a lightweight plastic container, or a natural wooden planter, selecting a high-quality lavender planter that suits your design taste is essential. The right planter will not only complement your outdoor space but also provide the necessary support for the vibrant growth and aromatic beauty of lavender.

So, make the best choice for your lavender plants and elevate the aesthetics of your garden with the perfect planter. With the right container, proper planting techniques, and consistent care, you can create a soothing and aromatic oasis right in your own backyard. Discover the joys of growing lavender in containers and enjoy its beauty and fragrance throughout the seasons.

Source Links

• https://bonnieplants.com/blogs/garden-fundamentals/choose-right-container-plants
• https://bonnieplants.com/blogs/how-to-grow/growing-lavender
• https://www.finegardening.com/article/growing-lavender-in-northern-california