How to Grow Lavender in Pakistan – For Flowers and Aromatic Herbs

Fast Facts

About Lavender

Lavender (Lavandula spp.) is a perennial herb known for its fragrant purple blooms and silvery-green foliage. Native to the Mediterranean, it thrives in hot, sunny, and dry conditions — making it a great fit for many parts of Pakistan when soil drainage is well managed.

When to Plant Lavender in Pakistan

Quick Botanical Profile

• Botanical Name: Lavandula angustifolia (common), Lavandula dentata, Lavandula stoechas

• Family: Lamiaceae

• Pollination: Pollinated by bees and insects

• Flowering Habit: Perennial

Growth Timeline

How-To by Growth Stage

When to Plant Lavender Seeds

• Best time to start: late winter to early spring (Feb–April).

• Lavender needs warm soil and consistent sunlight to germinate and grow.

Where to Plant Lavender

• Choose a full-sun location with well-draining soil.

• Avoid areas with high humidity or waterlogging.

• ✅ Use Organic Potting Mix mixed with coarse sand for container growing.

How to Plant Lavender Seeds

Lavender seeds require a little more attention than most herbs. To improve germination success:

• Cold Stratification Required: For Lavandula angustifolia, start by placing the seeds in a damp paper towel inside a sealed plastic bag, and refrigerate for 3–4 weeks. This simulates winter and breaks seed dormancy.

• After stratification, sow seeds on the surface of a well-draining mix (do not bury deep).

• Use 4" Plastic Pots or seed trays filled with a light potting mix or a blend of mix + fine sand.

• Lightly mist the soil using a spray bottle to keep it moist.

• Cover trays with plastic to maintain humidity but ensure some ventilation.

• Place trays in bright, indirect light at 18–21°C (65–70°F).

• Germination typically takes 2–4 weeks.

Once seedlings grow true leaves, gradually harden them off by exposing to outdoor conditions over several days. Transplant into a full sun area with well-drained soil, spacing 18–24 inches apart.

Note: Lavender germination is often slow and unpredictable. If you're a professional grower, you may follow your preferred techniques. Once established, lavender becomes a low-maintenance, perennial favorite.

Transplanting Lavender Seedlings

• Transplant when seedlings are 2–3 inches tall and have 2–4 sets of true leaves.

• ✅ Shift to Grow Bags or garden beds with good air circulation.

• Space 12–18 inches apart.

How to Harvest Lavender

• Cut flower stems just before full bloom (when color is rich but buds haven't fully opened).

• Hang in small bunches upside down to dry in shade for herbal use.

• Harvest early morning for the highest oil concentration.

How to Care for Lavender

• Watering: Let soil dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering.

• Feeding: Apply Vermicompost once at planting and again mid-season.

• Pruning: Lightly trim after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

• Avoid chemical fertilizers — lavender prefers lean soil.

Companion Planting for Lavender

✅ Good Companions:

• Rosemary

• Thyme

• Marigolds

• Echinacea

❌ Avoid Planting Near:

• Mint (spreads aggressively and holds moisture)

• Water-loving vegetables (like cucumbers)

Scientific Variations – Lavender

• English Lavender (L. angustifolia) – Sweet scent, culinary and herbal use

• French Lavender (L. dentata) – Ornamental, drought-tolerant

• Spanish Lavender (L. stoechas) – Compact and good for pots

(ApnaUgao offers mixed lavender seed packs for gardeners and herbalists.)

Benefits of Lavender

• Used in essential oils, teas, and natural skincare

• Naturally repels mosquitoes and pests

• Dried flowers are calming, anti-inflammatory, and aromatic

• Beautiful addition to garden beds, balconies, and patios

🛒 Shop ApnaUgao Online for Growing "Lavender Plants"

• Buy Aromatic Herb Seeds Collection

• Grow Bags Collection

• Organic Potting Mix

• Vermicompost