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Growing lavender in New England is absolutely possible, and it can thrive here with the right approach.
If you’ve been wondering how to grow lavender in New England, you’re in the right place because this region’s climate actually offers some unique advantages.
The key is understanding what lavender needs and working with New England’s seasons rather than against them.
In this post, we’ll explore exactly how to grow lavender in New England, from choosing the right variety to overwintering your plants successfully.
Let’s dig in.
How to Grow Lavender in New England: The Basics
Growing lavender in New England starts with understanding that this Mediterranean herb has specific needs.
When you grow lavender in New England, you’re essentially recreating the conditions of its native habitat: dry, sunny, and well-drained.
The good news is that New England’s summers provide plenty of sunshine, which lavender absolutely loves.
The challenge comes during our cold, wet winters and heavy clay soils.
But don’t worry, because thousands of gardeners grow lavender in New England successfully every year.
1. Choose the Right Lavender Variety
Not all lavender varieties will survive New England winters.
If you want to grow lavender in New England, English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is your best bet.
Varieties like ‘Munstead’ and ‘Hidcote’ are particularly cold-hardy and reliable here.
These English lavender varieties can handle temperatures down to -20°F when properly established.
French and Spanish lavenders are less cold-hardy, so growing lavender in New England with these types is riskier.
Stick with English varieties if you want the best chance of success.
2. Pick the Perfect Planting Spot
When you grow lavender in New England, location is everything.
Lavender needs at least six to eight hours of full sun daily.
Choose a spot on the south or west side of your home for maximum warmth and sunlight.
Good air circulation is also critical for growing lavender in New England.
Avoid planting near downspouts or in low areas where water collects.
Slopes or raised beds are ideal because they drain quickly.
If you grow lavender in New England on flat ground, consider building a raised bed to improve drainage.
3. Prepare the Soil Properly
One of the biggest mistakes when you grow lavender in New England is underestimating soil drainage.
New England’s native soil tends to be heavy clay that holds too much water.
Lavender roots rot quickly in soggy conditions, especially during winter.
To grow lavender in New England successfully, amend your soil with plenty of sand, gravel, or perlite.
Aim for a soil pH between 6.5 and 7.5, slightly alkaline is fine.
Adding lime can help if your soil is too acidic, which is common in New England.
Raised beds with a sandy, gritty mix give you the most control when growing lavender in New England.
Planting and Caring for Lavender in New England
Once you’ve got the right variety and location, planting lavender in New England is straightforward.
Timing matters when you grow lavender in New England.
Plant in late spring after the last frost when the soil has warmed up.
This gives roots time to establish before winter arrives.
1. Water Wisely
Newly planted lavender needs regular watering for the first few weeks.
But once established, lavender is drought-tolerant and prefers dry conditions.
When you grow lavender in New England, water deeply but infrequently.
Let the soil dry out completely between waterings.
Overwatering is the number one killer of lavender in New England gardens.
2. Prune at the Right Time
Pruning keeps lavender plants healthy and productive.
When you grow lavender in New England, prune lightly in early spring after danger of hard frost passes.
Never cut into the woody stems, as they won’t regrow.
After flowering, deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.
A light shaping in late summer helps prepare plants for winter.
3. Winter Protection Is Essential
This is where growing lavender in New England differs from warmer climates.
Our freeze-thaw cycles and wet winters can devastate lavender.
After the ground freezes, cover plants with a loose layer of straw or evergreen boughs.
This protects against temperature fluctuations without smothering the plant.
Avoid using heavy mulch like leaves, which traps moisture and causes rot.
Container-grown lavender should be moved to a sheltered spot or unheated garage.
Common Challenges When You Grow Lavender in New England
Even with perfect care, growing lavender in New England has its challenges.
High humidity in summer can lead to fungal issues.
Space plants generously to improve airflow.
Root rot from our wet winters is the biggest threat.
That’s why drainage and winter protection matter so much.
If you grow lavender in New England and notice yellowing leaves, check for soggy soil.
Act quickly by improving drainage or transplanting to a better spot.
So, How to Grow Lavender in New England?
Growing lavender in New England is absolutely achievable with the right variety, proper drainage, and winter protection.
When you grow lavender in New England, choose cold-hardy English varieties like ‘Munstead’ or ‘Hidcote’.
Give them full sun, excellent drainage, and protect them through winter.
With these steps, you’ll be growing lavender in New England that returns year after year.
So go ahead and give it a try.
You might be surprised just how well you can grow lavender in New England.