Watering lavender is where many beginners (and even experienced gardeners) make mistakes, as it's often overwatered. Lavender absolutely prefers to be on the drier side. The key is to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Here's a breakdown of how often to water lavender, depending on its stage and environment:
1. Newly Planted Lavender (Establishment Phase)
This is the only time lavender needs consistent attention to watering.
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First 2 Weeks: Water thoroughly every 2-4 days, or when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. This helps the roots settle into their new environment.
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Next 1-2 Months (Remaining First Growing Season): Reduce frequency to once per week, or when the top 3-4 inches of soil are completely dry. The goal is to encourage the roots to grow deeper, searching for water.
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How to Water: Water deeply at the base of the plant until you see water starting to drain out (if in a pot) or until the soil is thoroughly moistened to a depth of several inches (if in the ground). Avoid overhead watering, which can keep foliage wet and encourage fungal issues. Drip irrigation or a soaker hose is ideal.
2. Established Lavender (After the First Year)
Once lavender is established (typically after its first full year in the ground), it becomes very drought-tolerant and rarely needs supplemental watering.
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Outdoor, In-Ground:
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In most climates, established lavender plants grown in well-draining soil can often subsist on rainfall alone and may not need any additional watering, even during dry spells.
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During extended periods of extreme drought or intense heat, you might need to water every 2-4 weeks with a deep soak. Always check the soil first to ensure it's completely dry several inches down.
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The mantra is: "When in doubt, don't water." Overwatering is far more detrimental than underwatering for established lavender.
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Container Grown (Potted) Lavender:
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Pots dry out much faster than in-ground soil, so container lavender will require more frequent watering, even when established.
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Water when the soil is bone dry to the touch throughout the pot (or if the pot feels very light when lifted). This might be every 1-2 weeks in moderate weather, and potentially once a week or even more frequently during hot, sunny, windy periods.
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Ensure the pot has ample drainage holes and that the plant is never sitting in standing water in a saucer.
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Factors Influencing Watering Frequency:
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Soil Type:
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Sandy/Gritty Soil: Drains very quickly, may need slightly more frequent watering (but still letting it dry out).
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Clay Soil: Retains water, needs much less frequent watering (and should be heavily amended for lavender).
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Climate & Weather:
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Hot, Dry, Windy Weather: Increases evaporation, plants dry out faster.
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Humid Climates: Plants transpire less, soil dries slower, requiring less frequent watering. Increased humidity also means higher risk of fungal issues if soil stays wet.
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Rainfall: If you've had significant rain, skip watering.
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Plant Size & Age: Larger, more established plants have deeper root systems and are more drought-tolerant. Smaller, younger plants need more attention.
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Container Material: Terracotta pots dry out faster than plastic pots.
How to Tell When to Water (The Finger Test):
The best way to know if your lavender needs water is to stick your finger (or a moisture meter) into the soil.
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For newly planted: Check the top 1-2 inches. If dry, water.
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For established in-ground: Dig down 4-6 inches near the plant. If the soil feels dry, it might be time for a deep soak.
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For established in pots: Stick your finger into the soil as deep as it will go. If it feels dry down there, it's time to water. If it feels even slightly damp, wait.
Yellowing leaves or wilting can be signs of both overwatering AND underwatering in lavender. If your plant is wilting and the soil is damp, it's likely overwatering and root rot. If it's wilting and the soil is bone dry, it's thirsty. However, for lavender, assume overwatering is the culprit first, as it's more common and more fatal.