Unlocking the benefits of lavender: Perfect timing for pruning in spring season

Frost-resistant species thrive well in moderate climates. Lavender is visually appealing and fragrant and possesses valuable health-promoting properties. It is renowned for its calming effect on the nervous system, making it helpful in treating insomnia. Alongside this, lavender offers analgesic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative benefits. It is widely used in the cosmetics industry. Despite its ornamental and therapeutic uses, lavender is not a high-maintenance plant. However, it thrives with appropriate care. The regular pruning of lavender is a crucial factor in its growth. So, when should you prune the lavender for the first time after winter?

Most commonly cultivated varieties include English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), French lavender (Lavandula stoechas), Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia), and Fernleaf lavender (Lavandula multifida). Among these, English lavender is the most popular species. Its flowering season usually takes place in July and August. In Poland, these plants can grow to an approximate height of about 31.5 inches. Creating lavender fields specifically for photo sessions is gaining popularity in the country.

According to expert horticulturalists, proper and frequent pruning of lavender transforms the plant into a bushier, denser form. Moreover, pruning helps stimulate a new bloom. Lavender should ideally be pruned every year and preferably twice a year. Regular pruning rejuvenates the plant and prevents the stems from becoming woody, thereby improving the plant's overall appearance and shape. The optimal time to carry out the first pruning is right after winter. The window for spring pruning spans from the second half of March through early April. It's recommended to perform the task on a sunny, dry day. The second pruning should be done after the blooming season, which usually falls at the end of summer.

It's important to remember that only the non-woody stems should be pruned annually. Chosen branches should be trimmed down by about 1/3 of their length. It's crucial to note where the leaves are growing before pruning. The cuts should be made above the leafless parts of the stems, and woody stems should not be pruned. Young bushes need pruning during the first year of cultivation. Young stems may be pruned down to half their length at this stage. The spring pruning of lavender must be done well before the blooming period.