How to grow Lavender Seeds

Growing lavender from seed is a rewarding process, though it requires patience and specific care. Lavender seeds can take up to two years to bloom, but the plants that grow from seeds are often more vigorous and resilient against pests and diseases.

Lavender needs a cold period to trigger germination. This cold exposure, known as stratification, helps break the seeds' dormancy. Direct seeding in the garden during winter allows the seeds to naturally experience this cold period, similar to how they would in the wild.

If you’re starting lavender seeds indoors, you can replicate the winter cold. Scatter the seeds on a moist (not soggy) paper towel, then place the towel in a sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator for 30 to 40 days. After this period, remove the bag and place the paper towel in direct sunlight. The seeds should germinate on the towel within 7 to 14 days.

When sowing, ensure the seeds aren’t buried too deeply under the soil. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them out to about 5 cm apart. Gradually acclimate the young plants to outdoor conditions over 7 to 10 days before planting them in well-drained soil in full sun, after the risk of frost has passed.

For mature plants, wait until spring to prune them, which helps prevent the lavender from becoming too woody.

-> Back to Seed Growing Guides