Best Flower Gardening

Lavender is actually an herb that belongs to the perennial family and is native to the Mediterranean. There are at least thirty species of it and the most common flowers are purple but lavender comes in white and pink also. The leaves and flowers of lavender contain scented oil glands and the oil has been used extensively in cosmetics and perfumes for many years. You can dry the leaves and flowers of lavender and use in sachets and potpourris or just place them in a basket around the house for a delightful scent.

Lavender goes back to ancient times and used extensively by the Greeks and Romans. Back then, they used lavender to scent bath water and that is where its name comes from which is derived from the Latin word lavare which means to wash. Since then, lavender has been known to get rid of melancholy and lift one’s spirit. Lavender was also used to help combat dizziness and some say that women in labor had been known for using lavender during childbirth to gain some courage and strength.

Today, lavender continues to show medicinal properties as a discovery was made of a sedative in the plant called antispasmodic which has tranquilizing effects on people. It is believed that lavender has been used to relieve headaches and stress. It is also used as a topical disinfectant on wounds and to relieve tired nerves that causes pain. Some people have reported relief from intestinal gas and indigestion after using lavender. I don’t know if all these claims are true but what I do know is that the lavender scent is delightful and very soothing. And the best part is that lavender is easy to grow. Here are some tips for growing lavender in pots or containers.

•    Since lavender plants can grow to be a shrub, start with large containers or pots. You may want to fill the bottom of the pot or container with Styrofoam or even gravel to promote easy drainage. Mix some potting soil with about a tablespoon of lime and fill the container. Place the plant in the pot or container about an inch above the soil line so that the plant’s crown is not covered.

•    Add some mulch or you can use landscaping pebbles up to the plant crown. Some gardeners believe that the mulch gives the plant more light and it is better for fast growth. It also helps to dry the plant’s stems faster after watering. This is essential so that your lavender plant does not rot.

•    Lavender plants love sun and it needs at least eight hours daily so be sure to place the pot or container in a sunny area. A sidewalk or a patio is ideal for the pot or container.

•    Be sure to check the soil under the mulch frequently and water if the soil feels dry to you. If the soil is dry, water the plant until the water reaches the bottom of the pot or container. You can also feed your lavender plant regularly with fertilizer. Check at your local garden store for the best fertilizer to use.

•    When your plant is in full bloom, be sure to cut blooming stems as this will encourage more growth. Lavender plants can flower at least three times during the summer. Be sure to place those gorgeous blooms in a vase and keep in the house for a soothing scent.

•    In the winter months, bring your lavender pot or container indoors and place them in an unheated porch or garage. Don’t worry if the soil freezes, it won’t damage the plant.

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