If you’ve ever grown lavender, you’ve likely found yourself wanting more of these wonderfully fragrant flowers without spending a dime. Luckily, propagating lavender is just as simple as growing these charming, easy-care perennials.
Lavender is a favorite for many gardeners. Not only does it add stunning beauty to any garden, but its leaves and flowers are also prized for their scent and versatility in cooking, beauty products, and herbal remedies. It’s no surprise you’d want to multiply these fantastic plants.
Let’s explore the best ways to propagate lavender so you can grow more of these lovely herbs at home.
Best Ways to Propagate Lavender
You can propagate lavender in several ways—from seed or by division—though dividing lavender is tricky since it’s a woody subshrub.
For a quick and easy way to get more lavender for free, these three methods work best. Let’s break them down and see when to use each:
Softwood Cuttings
This method involves taking cuttings from fresh, new growth that’s just starting to mature.
Spring is the perfect time to take softwood cuttings from lavender, as they root reliably. Early-season cuttings give plenty of time for roots to develop before potting them into individual containers.
You can keep your lavender in pots or transplant it into your garden later.
Hardwood Cuttings
Hardwood cuttings, taken from mid-summer through fall, also work well. Since these stems are more mature, they need a longer period to establish roots, making cooler conditions ideal.
Layering
Layering involves bending a living branch down to the ground and covering part of it with soil. Over time, the buried nodes will sprout roots.
Lavender propagates easily this way—just make sure the soil stays moist all season. Younger shoots are the best candidates for layering.
Best Time to Propagate Lavender
Timing depends on your method:
- Spring is best for softwood cuttings.
- Late season (mid-summer to fall) suits hardwood cuttings, letting new plants establish roots over winter.
How to Propagate Lavender from Cuttings
One of the simplest ways to grow more lavender is through cuttings. Follow these steps:
- Take Cuttings
Snip 6-8 inch (15-20 cm) stems, cutting just below a healthy set of leaves at a 45-degree angle (like when pruning).- Softwood cuttings should be fresh, green growth.
- Hardwood cuttings should be more mature.
- Trim Off Leaves
Remove excess leaves, keeping only 1-2 sets at the top. Strip any leaves that would sit below the soil.
- Plant Cuttings
Optional: Dip cuttings in rooting hormone to speed up root growth.
Plant them in well-draining soil in pots or trays. Use a pencil to make holes, then gently firm the soil around them.
- Water and Keep Moist
Water well after planting. Maintain humidity by misting or using a humidity dome. Covering cuttings with a plastic bag works too.
For larger batches, try Vego’s Seedling Tray Lids with Drip Irrigation (available in the Gardening Know How Shop)—perfect for keeping cuttings hydrated.
How to Propagate Lavender by Layering
Pick stems near the base, dig a small trench, bend them down, and cover the nodes with soil. Keep the soil moist all season to encourage rooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Root Lavender Cuttings in Water?
Yes, but success isn’t guaranteed. Lavender can rot in water, so change it every other day if you try this method.
Can You Plant Lavender Cuttings Straight into the Ground?
You can, but garden conditions (drainage, pests, weeds) make it riskier. Rooting in containers first boosts your chances.
Conclusion:
Propagating lavender is an enjoyable and cost-effective way to grow more of these fragrant, versatile plants. Whether you choose softwood cuttings, hardwood cuttings, or layering, each method has its ideal time and care requirements. With a little patience and the right environment, you’ll be able to multiply your lavender plants and enjoy their beauty and fragrance throughout the year!
