Lavender woes: Uncover the surprising causes behind withering plants
Why does lavender wither? The problem is not always an improper amount of water. Sometimes, even the best gardeners make a mistake that causes the plant to lose its luster.
2:58 PM EDT, August 15, 2024
Beautiful, purple inflorescence and an aromatic scent... Lavender is one of the most commonly grown plants in gardens. However, it can be fussy. You might think that regular watering is key, but the cause might lie elsewhere.
Why does lavender wither?
If you are growing lavender in a pot, one of the most common mistakes is using a pot that is too small. Lavender, while it tolerates slight drying, needs space to develop its root system. In too small a pot, the roots have limited space, and the soil loses moisture faster.
As a result, the plant is not able to absorb the right amount of water, which leads to drying out and, consequently, withering. If you notice that your lavender is losing its vigor, consider repotting it into a larger container to allow it to develop stronger roots.
A common cause of lavender withering can also be soil that is too acidic. Lavender prefers alkaline or neutral soils. The ideal pH for lavender is between 6.5 and 7.5. If you are growing lavender in your garden, avoid planting it near acid-loving plants such as azaleas or rhododendrons. To ensure proper conditions for lavender, it's worth checking the soil pH and, if necessary, using dolomite or another calcium fertilizer to raise its pH.
The problem can also be improper pruning of lavender, especially if it is too aggressive or done at the wrong time. This can weaken the plant and contribute to its withering. The best time to prune is early spring and summer, just after flowering ends. Regular pruning not only keeps lavender in good shape but also stimulates it to produce new shoots and flowers.
Plant diseases
Lavender, like any other plant, is susceptible to pest and disease attacks. One of the most common pests is aphids, which weaken the plant, slow its growth, and deform the shoots. Another unwelcome guest can be the spittlebug, a small insect whose presence is recognized by characteristic white, foamy spots on the plant.
When it comes to fungal diseases, the most commonly encountered are gray mold and phytophthora. Gray mold manifests as a gray coating on the leaves and shoots, eventually rotting. On the other hand, phytophthora causes root dieback and wilting of the entire plant. In both cases, to save the lavender, it is necessary to remove the infected parts of the plant and apply appropriate fungicides.
