How to grow Lavender Seeds
Growing lavender from seed is not difficult, but requires some patience and some specific instructions. Lavender seeds take up to 2 years to bloom from the date of sowing; however growing from seed produces more vigorous, diverse plantings that are extra resilient to pests and diseases.
Lavender really needs a cold period in order to regulate germination. The cold temperature will naturally “stratify” the seed and signal it to break dormancy.
Direct seeding in the garden is the most natural way to plant lavender. Sow in the winter so that the seeds will naturally receive the cold exposure they would get when growing in the wild.
If starting lavender seed indoors, there are techniques that mimic the winter cold.
Scatter the seeds on a moist (but not soggy) paper towel. Place the paper towel in a sealed plastic bag and keep in the refrigerator for 30 to 40 days. After 30 to 40 days, pull it out of the fridge, discard the bag and place the paper towel in direct sunlight in a window. Seeds should germinate on the moist paper towel in 7 to 14 days.
When sowing, it's very important that they don’t get buried beneath too much soil. When large enough to handle, thin out seedlings to 5cm apart. Gradually acclimatize dill plants to outdoor conditions over 7 – 10 days before planting outdoors on well drained soil in full sun when all risk of frost has passed.
Wait until Spring for pruning mature plants to prevent the lavender becoming too woody.