Lavender Seeds

Lavender: An Evergreen Aromatic Plant

Lavender (Lavandula spp.) is an evergreen perennial herb known for its strong fragrance and beautiful purple flowers. It is used in essential oils, cosmetics and natural remedies, and is also grown for decoration, to attract bees and to improve the surrounding environment.

Benefits of Growing Lavender

• A drought-tolerant plant suited to the Jordanian climate.
• Lives for several years without needing to be replanted.
• Used in cosmetics, therapeutic applications and manufacturing.
• Attracts bees and butterflies, helping pollination in gardens and farms.

Preparing the Soil: 10 Days Before Planting

• Lavender prefers well-drained sandy or light loamy soil, as it does not tolerate waterlogged conditions.
• A soil pH of 6.5–7.5 is preferred for optimal growth.
• Add 3–5 kg of well-rotted organic fertilizer per square meter to improve soil fertility.

Tools and Supplies

• A garden spade for preparing the soil.
• Lavender seeds.
• A drip irrigation system for balanced watering.
• Pruning shears for trimming plants after flowering.

Planting: Day One

Lavender can be grown from seed and requires raising seedlings for transplanting.

• Plant the seedlings 2–3 cm deep in the soil.
• Leave 30–40 cm between seedlings for good airflow.
• Leave 50–60 cm between rows for easy care.
• Water moderately immediately after planting.

Germination: 15–30 Days After Planting

Keep the soil lightly moist, without saturating it.

Plant Care: From the First Month Until Flowering

• Watering: Water moderately every 7–10 days, reducing watering once the plant is established.
• Fertilizing: Light feeding with a fertilizer such as NPK 20-20-20 is recommended to encourage flowering.
• Pruning: Prune annually to maintain the plant's shape and encourage new growth.
• Weeding: Remove weeds that compete for nutrients.

Harvesting: 4–6 Months After Planting

Harvest flowers as they begin to open for the highest essential oil content. Cut stems with sharp pruning shears and dry them in the shade to preserve their quality.

Suggested Fertilizing Schedule

Common Pests and Their Management

• Red spider mites: Cause yellowing leaves. An acaricide such as Samcotin may be applied where its label permits use on this crop and pest.
• Aphids: Suck plant sap and weaken growth. A systemic insecticide such as PRIZE may be used where the label permits this use.
• Root fungi: Affect roots in wet soil. Reduce watering and improve drainage.
• Cutworms: Feed on leaves. Use a pesticide labeled for the crop and pest, or remove larvae by hand.

Tips for Growing Lavender in Jordan

• The recommended planting period is February–April for good flowering.
• Choose a fully sunny site with 6–8 hours of sun each day.
• Avoid overwatering, as roots are prone to rot in very wet soil.
• Raised areas or sites with good drainage are preferred.
• Regular pruning helps keep plants dense and healthy.

Lavender is an aromatic, drought-tolerant perennial that is easy to care for and suited to home gardens and commercial farms. Balanced watering, suitable fertilizing and pest care can support plentiful, high quality flowers.