Lavender is definitely in the discussion as one of the most popular plants to ever exist! Millions of people around the world try to propagate lavender every year to either bask in its soft purple beauty or use it to relieve pain and inflammation; some succeed, but many others fail.
Countless reasons can contribute to that failure but only one reason will help you succeed – it is if you propagate lavender the right way.
This article will walk you through the process of propagating a lavender plant from simple cuttings. (Hint: It’s not that simple, so keep reading!)
How to Propagate Lavender from Cuttings? Step-by-Step
1 – Collecting Materials & Cuttings
Well… Before we jump into the actual propagation process, let’s go over some of the things you will need:
Whether you’re using your own lavender plant or your friend’s to collect stem cuttings, keep in mind to always use a fresh and healthy piece.
You don’t want to plant cuttings from a dying or yellowing lavender that clearly looks to be in a rough condition.
Use scissors to make clean cuts just below the leaf node and make sure each stem you cut is at least 5-7 inches long.
2 – Bring In The Pots!
Now that you’ve collected your lavender cuttings, it’s time to actually plant them.
Fill up containers with potting soil (preferably a well-draining mix) and place the bottom end of each cutting in the soil using your fingers.
Yes, you’ll have to get your hands dirty for this but, trust me, it’s going to be worth it! Make sure the cuttings are firmly placed and not just flimsily floating on top of the soil.
Another tip! You can take lavender cuttings and place them in water for 10 to 15 days, until they take root, so the chances of them surviving when you plant them in the soil mix will be greater!
3 – Aftercare?
Okay, hear me out…this is my favorite example to give regarding plant care after propagation
Whenever you shave, do you just hop out of the washroom and go about your day like usual? I’m pretty sure nobody does. The shaven area of the skin feels weirdly itchy, dry, and almost like it’s going to tear apart. So, what do you do? You use some aftershave and balm after, right?
After propagation, your cuttings are also in a vulnerable state. So, why not give them some attention?
Hydrate your newly planted lavender cuttings, get them adequate sunlight and, if needed, cover them with a plastic bag to retain moisture and humidity so that they have an optimal environment to begin rooting.
4 – Transferring
Once your lavender roots grow big enough, you’ll eventually have to transfer the rooted cuttings to a larger container or perhaps even your backyard for maximal growth.
Final Words
So, you’ve finally propagated your first lavender plant; congratulations! Wasn’t that tough, was it?
Now you can enjoy all the benefits of lavender from the comfort of your home!
Not only will you encounter fewer mosquitoes because of the natural insect-repellent properties of lavender but can also take a quick sniff of the plant during stressful times to get a rapid relaxing effect. Lavender is truly magical; you’re lucky to have propagated one!
Thank you for this. Just did so e today
Hi Carla! You’re so welcome! 😊 That’s awesome, hope your cuttings root beautifully. Lavender is such a rewarding plant to grow 😊
Great tips on rooting lavender and keeping it protected during the winter.
Thanks for the tutorial! I have some in water and some in potting mix! Now to be patient!😜😜😜
Hi Tish! That’s perfect! I’ve had success with both methods. And yep, patience is the hardest part! 😄 Just keep them warm and bright, and those roots will surprise you before you know it.
Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience so generously . Such a help
Bear
You’re so welcome, Bear! 😊 I’m really glad it helped. Wishing you lots of success with your lavender cuttings!
Thanks for the tips! How many cuttings per pot do you recommend? Lavender is notoriously finicky in my area but I will NOT give up? I dream of a bushy border…
Hi Lisa 😊 For lavender cuttings, I usually do 3 to 5 cuttings in a small 4 to 5 inch pot, spaced so the leaves aren’t touching too much. If it’s a bigger 6 to 8 inch pot, you can do 6 to 10. I have the best success when I start a few extra and then pot them up once they’re rooted, lavender can be picky but it’s doable 😅
Thank you for the nice description of how to properly propogate lavender 🪻
Hi Dana 🙂 You’re very welcome! I’m glad the step-by-step explanation made the process easier to follow.
I’m going to do this tomorrow! Doing something like this successfully is such a rewarding accomplishment! Thank you for sharing!
Hi Verla 🙂 I hope it goes really well! There’s something so rewarding about seeing a cutting you started yourself put on its first new growth.
After propagation can they be planted into the ground in the fall? I’m in zone 6.
Hi Ashley 🙂 You can plant rooted lavender in fall in Zone 6 if the plants are well established and you still have about two months of decent growing weather before winter. For small, newly rooted cuttings, I’d rather keep them protected and plant after the last frost in spring.
What’s the best time to propagate lavender in north Dallas?
Hi 🙂 In North Dallas, I’d aim for spring when you have plenty of fresh new growth to work with. Softwood cuttings root well then, and late summer to early fall is another option once the stems become semi-hardwood.
Can you do the same with French Lavender plants.
Hi Sharon 🙂 Yes, you can propagate French lavender from cuttings the same way. I’d use healthy non-flowering shoots and a very well-draining mix. Just keep in mind that French lavender is less cold hardy, so young plants may need winter protection in colder areas.
How do I winter my cuttings, inside or outside.
Hi Mary 🙂 For their first winter, I’d keep newly rooted lavender cuttings protected rather than leave small pots exposed outside. A bright, cool indoor spot or a cold frame works well, then harden them off before planting outside in spring.