FAQs

Q: What is the most fragrant lavender?
A: The best lavender for fragrance in drawers & cupboards is the intermedia lavender which has a high camphoraceous content.

Q: What is the best lavender to grow for a hedge?
A: One of the Dentata lavenders is best for a hedge. They flower most of the year but like all lavenders they must be cut back after the flowers brown off.

Q: What are the best growing conditions for lavender plants?
A: Sunny position, well drained soil, not much water. They grow better in the ground.

Q: Does lavender need much water?
A: No. Lavender is a drought tolerant plant. Do not water unless it is in a pot & then only keep the pot moist not wet.

Q: Can I grow lavender in a pot?
A: Yes but it does do better in the ground. The Stoechas lavenders are quite attractive in a pot. They have rabbit’s ears on the top of the flower & there are many varieties.

Q: What lavender can be used in cooking?
A: The angustifolia lavenders are the only types which can be used in cooking. They have a darker flower, are sweeter in fragrance & have a low camphoraceous content.

Q: Why does my lavender go all woody?
A: You have not pruned the bush severely enough. You must cut your lavender plant back by 2 thirds each year after the flowers are past their best. Use hedge shears or a whipper-snipper for large areas of lavender plants.

Q: Why does some of my lavender die off?
A: Unfortunately this is a peculiarity of lavenders. The best thing to do is to cut out the die-back & reshape the bush.

Q: When should I cut back my lavender?
A: After flowering. Cut back by 2 thirds leaving only a small amount of foliage. DO NOT cut back to the dry wood.

Q: What variety of lavender is best for craftwork & for the wardrobe?
A: One of the intermedia varieties is best for craftwork & the wardrobe as they are stronger in camphoraceous fragrance.

Q: Do I need to fertilize my lavender & if so when & with what?
A: Once a year is adequate for fertilizing lavender. You only need a small amount of complete fertilizer or dynamic lifter. A little lime every 2 years is also good for lavenders. Fertilize at the end of Winter so as the rains can wash the nutrient in to the soil ready for the Spring growth.

Q: When do lavender plants flower & when is the best time to visit the lavender farm & see it all in bloom?
A: Early Summer to late Summer depending on the variety. The best time to visit the farm is from early November when the lavender begins to bloom. We do have some Winter flowering lavenders on display.

Q: How long does a lavender plant last?
A: Usually 15 years but they can be replaced more frequently when they have become too woody. Plants look better for longer if cut back hard each year.


If you have a question which is not listed here please email us & we will attempt to answer your query.

If your question needs more in depth information we are happy to make an appointment time with you for further discussion. There is a small fee for consultations. If you have a question you would like to ask a ‘lavender expert’ please email us your enquiry and we’ll endeavour to get back to you with the answer as soon as we can.

Email Annemarie at annemarie@warratinalavender.com.au with your question and return contact details.

The best time to visit the farm is from early November