Top Tips For Planting Lavender in Terracotta Pots

Lavender, with its rich history, iconic purple hue and delightful aromatic fragrance, is a hugely popular plant variety in the UK—one that can instantly add beauty and charm to any garden space. 

If you’re looking for the ideal container in which to introduce this beloved plant into your garden space, then a handmade terracotta pot might just be the perfect solution! These exquisite Tuscan pots not only complement the Mediterranean origins of lavender but also provide a wonderful environment for its growth. Let’s dig a little deeper!

The history of lavender

Lavender has a fascinating history dating back thousands of years. Originating from the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and India, it was used by ancient civilizations for perfumes, medicinal purposes, and even in battle. The Romans introduced lavender to the UK, where it was treasured for its antiseptic properties and various other uses. Today, lavender is known for its fragrant leaves and bee-friendly flowers, making it a popular choice for gardens of all styles.

Choosing the right lavender variety

When selecting lavender for your garden, consider your personal preferences in terms of flower colour, shape, and foliage characteristics. English lavender is a hardy and long-lived variety, which attracts bees and adds a touch of elegance to any landscape. Alternatively, hybrid lavenders offer increased resilience to wetter soils and colder winters. These lavenders, characterized by their larger size and prolonged flowering period, offer an abundance of delightful blooms, as well as a rich supply of pollen and nectar to nourish and attract bees.

Growing lavender in terracotta pots

Large terracotta pots provide an excellent growing environment for lavender; offering superior breathability and safeguards the roots against waterlogging. When planting lavender in terracotta pots, ensure the drainage holes are clear and use a well-drained soil mix enriched with horticultural grit. Place the pots in a sunny spot away from overhanging trees and shrubs, and you’ll have the perfect environment in which your lavender can flourish.

Planting lavender with care

Whether you choose to plant lavender directly in the ground or in a terracotta pot, proper planting techniques are essential for its success. Plant lavender in full sun, ensuring the soil is well-drained and neutral to alkaline. If you have heavy soil, improve drainage by adding horticultural grit to the planting hole. Water the lavender plant thoroughly after planting to help establish its roots.

Lavender care and maintenance

Hardy lavenders can withstand temperatures down to -15°C and can be left in the garden all year round. Prune these varieties after flowering, typically in August, to encourage bushier growth and maintain their shape. Avoid cutting into old wood, as this can impact the plant's ability to flower the following year. For more delicate lavenders, which may not survive winter, prune after the initial flowering but no later than early September. Deadheading and light pruning can help maintain their appearance.

How can we help?

Fragrant blooms, rich in history and versatile, lavender is a captivating addition to any garden. Handmade terracotta pots not only provide an aesthetically pleasing container for your lavender plants but also offer the ideal growing conditions. With their breathability and excellent drainage, these pots allow your lavender to thrive and flourish. If you’d like to find out more about the perfect handmade terracotta pot for your lavender, please do get in touch. Happy planting!