With its hardy and drought-tolerant nature, lavender is well-suited to Auckland’s traditionally dry summers. However, despite its preference for drier conditions – this versatile plant can handle wetter climates like we experienced last summer. While it usually blooms in spring and summer, certain varieties of English and French lavenders surprise us with year-round flowers, especially in the Auckland north region. Loved by both bees and gardeners for its fragrant blooms, lavender will make a brilliant addition to your backyard, attracting these buzzing pollinators.
Spanish lavender, with its adorable bunny ear flowers, follows the seasons more closely than its hardier cousins. A hard autumn prune after its final flowering keeps it looking neat and tidy. The French and English lavenders require less care but appreciate a tidy in autumn, even when they're still blooming. English lavender is most commonly used for culinary purposes and is what the ‘true’ lavender fragrance and oil is derived from.
When it comes to growing lavender, it’s quite easy once established. As long as you avoid wet roots and provide some seasonal pruning, your lavender will reward you with beautiful blooms. They don’t like having wet feet, so be sure to plant them in well-draining soil and a sunny spot!
Make sure to include a little seasonal pruning in your routine. Remove fading flowers and trim back about a third in late summer, and they'll reward you with their blooming beauty.
