Lavender, with its fragrant flowers and myriad uses, is a popular plant among gardeners and homeowners. Known for its calming scent and beautiful purple blooms, lavender varieties range from the common English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) to the more resilient French lavender (Lavandula dentata). This article explores various places where you can find high-quality lavender plants for your garden.
Local Nurseries and Garden Centers
One of the best places to start looking for lavender plants is at local nurseries and garden centers. These establishments often offer a range of healthy, regionally appropriate lavender varieties. Shopping locally also provides the advantage of accessing expert advice from knowledgeable staff who can offer specific care tips and recommend the best lavender variety for your local climate and soil conditions.
Tips for Buying at Local Nurseries:
- Ask about the origin of the plants to ensure they are suited to your region.
- Inspect plants for signs of good health, such as vibrant color and robust growth.
- Inquire about organic and pesticide-free options if that’s a priority for you.
Online Plant Retailers
For those who prefer shopping from home, numerous online plant retailers sell lavender plants. Websites like The Sill, Garden Goods Direct, and Nature Hills Nursery are known for their quality and variety. When purchasing plants online, consider factors like shipping time and the retailer’s policy on plants damaged during shipping.
Online Shopping Considerations:
- Check customer reviews to gauge satisfaction with plant quality and shipping.
- Look for sites that offer detailed care instructions and support after purchase.
- Be aware of shipping times and the impact on plant health during transit.
Home Improvement Stores
Large home improvement chains like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Menards often carry a selection of common lavender varieties, especially during the gardening season. These stores can be a convenient option for quick purchases, though the variety and expertise available might be more limited compared to specialized nurseries.
Selecting Plants from Home Improvement Stores:
- Look for plants that appear well-cared for, avoiding those with wilting or discolored leaves.
- Check the plant label for information on the specific lavender variety and its care requirements.
- Be mindful of the potential for a more limited selection compared to specialty nurseries.
Farmers Markets and Plant Sales
Farmers markets and local plant sales often feature lavender plants from local growers. These venues can be excellent sources for high-quality, acclimatized plants, and they offer the opportunity to support local businesses and community gardening initiatives.
Benefits of Buying at Farmers Markets:
- Plants are likely to be well-adapted to the local climate.
- Opportunity to speak directly with the growers about care and cultivation tips.
- Often, you can find unique or heirloom varieties not available in larger stores.
Specialty Herb and Lavender Farms
Specialty herb and lavender farms are treasure troves for lavender enthusiasts. These farms not only sell plants but also provide a wealth of information about growing and using lavender. Visiting these farms can be both educational and enjoyable, offering a broader understanding of different lavender varieties and their uses.
Advantages of Visiting Specialty Farms:
- Access to a wide variety of lavender species and cultivars.
- Personalized advice and tips from experienced lavender growers.
- The opportunity to see mature lavender plants in a garden setting, providing a realistic idea of their growth and bloom patterns.
Mail-Order Nurseries
Mail-order nurseries are another valuable resource for purchasing lavender plants, particularly if you’re looking for specific varieties that are hard to find locally. Catalogs and online stores like Burpee, White Flower Farm, and High Country Gardens offer a broad selection of lavender plants, including both common and rare varieties.
Tips for Mail-Order Purchases:
- Research the nursery’s reputation and customer satisfaction ratings.
- Pay attention to shipping schedules to ensure plants arrive at an optimal planting time.
- Understand the return and replacement policies in case of dead or damaged plants upon arrival.
Growing Lavender from Seed
For those interested in starting their lavender plants from scratch, growing from seed can be a rewarding alternative. Seeds are available through various sources, including online seed companies, garden centers, and mail-order catalogs. Companies like Johnny’s Selected Seeds, Park Seed, and Territorial Seed Company offer a range of lavender seeds.
Advantages of Growing from Seed:
- Access to a wider variety of lavender types than what might be available as plants.
- Potentially more cost-effective, especially for planting larger areas.
- The satisfaction of growing plants from the very beginning.
Seed Starting Tips:
- Start seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
- Use a light, well-draining soil mix and keep seeds moist until germination.
- Provide plenty of light and warmth to encourage strong seedling growth.
Considerations When Buying Lavender Plants
When purchasing lavender plants, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure you select the best plants for your needs and growing conditions:
Climate Suitability:
- Choose varieties that are well-suited to your local climate. Some lavenders are more tolerant of heat or cold than others.
Plant Health:
- Look for plants with green, vigorous growth, free of pests and diseases.
- Avoid plants that show signs of stress, such as yellowing leaves or wilt.
Variety Selection:
- Research different varieties to find those that meet your needs, whether for landscaping, culinary use, or oil production.
- Consider bloom times, plant size, and fragrance when selecting.
Conclusion
Whether you choose to buy lavender plants from local nurseries, online retailers, specialty farms, or decide to grow them from seed, there are plenty of options available. Each source has its advantages, whether it’s the convenience of a local store, the variety available online, or the satisfaction of growing your own from seed. By considering factors like climate suitability and plant health, you can select the best lavender plants to thrive in your garden. With their delightful fragrance and beautiful blooms, lavender plants are a wonderful addition to any garden or home landscape.
