Lavender is a favourite amongst gardeners for its easy-care and hardy nature. It is drought- tolerant, making it well-suited for Auckland’s traditionally dry summers. Although lavender prefer drier conditions, they can still handle wetter climates.
There are many species of lavender, with different varieties falling under each species. The most common species found in our garden centres are Spanish lavender, English lavender, and French lavender. Spanish lavender has distinctive bunny-ear flowers and follows the seasons more closely than the hardier English and French lavenders. English lavender is light and sweetly scented, and is most commonly used for culinary purposes. French lavender has a softer scent, and is more often used for landscaping. While lavender usually blooms from spring through summer, some varieties of English and French lavender can provide year-round blooms in warmer climates
Lavender is relatively easy to care for once established. Plant in a sunny spot with well-draining soil, give it a little seasonal prune and you will be rewarded with beautiful blooms for years to come. In late summer, we recommend removing fading flowers and trimming back to a third to keep your lavender growing well
