How to grow Lavender in Australia
Plant in full sun in poor to average, sharply drained soil, as wet feet are the main killer. Water sparingly once established, since it thrives on the dry side and hates humidity around its base.
At a glance
- Difficulty: Beginner
- Sun: Full sun
- Water: 2 litres a week, watered every 7 days
- Spacing: 60 cm
- Time to harvest: 90 days
- Time to germinate: 21 days
- Soil pH: 6.5 to 7.5
- Frost tolerance: Frost hardy
When to sow by region
| Region | When to sow | Regional note |
|---|---|---|
| South East Queensland | March to September | |
| Northern Rivers NSW | March to September | |
| Sydney & Coastal NSW | March to September | |
| Melbourne & Victoria | March to September | Frost-hardy perennial. Melbourne cool climate ideal. Extend window vs SEQ. |
| Adelaide & SA | March to September | |
| Perth & WA | March to September | |
| Tasmania | March and April, September to November | Plant Sep to Nov or autumn. Tasmania has world-famous lavender farms - drainage matters more than cold. |
| Canberra & ACT | March to September | Lavender is cold-hardy Mediterranean; plant spring-autumn; needs excellent drainage; prune after flowering; thrives in cool season. |
| North Queensland | May to September | Dry season May to Sep. Lavender prefers drier conditions. |
| Darwin & Top End | May to September | Dry season May to Sep. Lavender prefers drier conditions. |
Companion planting
Good companions
Harvest and storage
Harvest tip
Cut the stems when the lower buds open and colour shows but flowers are not fully out. Snip just above the leaves, which also tidies the plant for the next flush.
Storage
Dry flower heads and store in a sealed jar, up to 12 months.