How to Grow Lavender in New Mexico

Growing lavender in New Mexico can be a rewarding experience for both novice and experienced gardeners. The region’s arid climate, abundant sunlight, and well-drained soils provide an ideal environment for this fragrant and versatile herb. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about successfully cultivating lavender in New Mexico, from soil preparation to harvesting and beyond.

Understanding Lavender

Lavender (Lavandula) is a genus of flowering plants in the mint family. Known for its aromatic flowers and leaves, it is widely used in aromatherapy, cooking, and cosmetics. There are several species of lavender, but the most common ones grown for commercial purposes include English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and French lavender (Lavandula dentata).

Benefits of Growing Lavender

1. Aesthetic Appeal: Lavender adds vibrant color to gardens with its purple spikes.
2. Fragrance: The scent of lavender is calming and can help reduce stress.
3. Attracts Pollinators: Bees and butterflies are drawn to lavender, making it an excellent choice for pollinator gardens.
4. Drought-Resistant: Once established, lavender requires minimal watering, making it ideal for New Mexico’s dry climate.
5. Culinary Uses: Lavender can be used in cooking and baking, adding a unique flavor to dishes.

Choosing the Right Variety

When growing lavender in New Mexico, it’s crucial to select the right variety suited to the local climate. Here are some popular choices:

• English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): This variety is hardy and well-suited for colder climates, making it a good choice for higher elevations in New Mexico. It produces long spikes of purple flowers and has a sweet fragrance.

• French Lavender (Lavandula dentata): This variety prefers warmer temperatures and has distinctive serrated leaves. Its blooms are less cold-hardy but thrive in the lower elevations of New Mexico.

• Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas): Recognizable by its unique flower structure, Spanish lavender is well adapted to hot and dry conditions.

Site Selection

Choosing the right location is crucial for growing healthy lavender. Here’s what you need to consider:

Sunlight

Lavender thrives in full sun. Select a spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. If possible, position your lavender plants on the southern or western side of your garden for maximum light exposure.

Soil Quality

Lavender prefers well-drained soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 8.0. Sandy or gravelly soils are ideal since they provide excellent drainage. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain moisture; consider amending your soil with organic matter or sand if necessary.

Drainage

Good drainage is vital as lavender is susceptible to root rot caused by excessive moisture. Raised beds or mounds can help improve drainage and enhance air circulation around the plant.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting your lavender, follow these steps to prepare your soil:

1. Test Soil pH: Use a soil testing kit to determine the pH level of your soil.
2. Amend as Needed: If your soil is too acidic, you can add lime to raise the pH.
3. Tilling: Loosen the soil by tilling it to a depth of at least 12 inches.
4. Add Organic Matter: Incorporate well-rotted compost or aged manure into the soil to improve its structure while ensuring it remains well-drained.

Planting Lavender

The best time to plant lavender in New Mexico is during spring after the last frost or in fall before the first frost. Follow these steps for successful planting:

Choosing Plants

You can grow lavender from transplants or seeds:

• Transplants: Purchasing young plants from a nursery ensures that you start with healthy specimens.
• Seeds: If you opt for seeds, soak them overnight before planting them indoors about 6-10 weeks prior to the last frost date.

Spacing

When planting multiple lavender plants, space them at least 2-3 feet apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth.

Planting Method

1. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball of your plant.
2. Place the plant in the hole at the same depth it was previously growing.
3. Fill in around the roots with soil and water thoroughly after planting.

Watering Lavender

While lavender is drought-resistant once established, adequate watering is critical during its initial growth phase:

• First Year: Water newly planted lavenders regularly until they are established—about once a week depending on rainfall.
• After Establishment: Water sparingly; only water during prolonged dry spells or if foliage starts wilting.

Mulching

Applying mulch can help retain moisture and suppress weeds but use gravel or small stones rather than organic mulch which might hold too much moisture.

Fertilizing Lavender

Lavender generally does not require heavy fertilization due to its adaptability to poor soils:

• Initial Fertilization: If desired, use a balanced fertilizer low in nitrogen when planting.
• Annual Fertilization: An annual application of compost or a slow-release fertilizer can promote healthy growth without overwhelming the plant.

Pruning Lavender

Regular pruning helps maintain shape and encourages new growth:

1. Timing: Prune after flowering in late summer or early fall.
2. Technique: Cut back about one-third of the plant without cutting into old wood; this promotes bushier growth next season.

Pest Management

While lavender is relatively pest-resistant due to its aromatic oils, keep an eye out for common issues such as aphids or fungal infections:

• Aphids: Spray with diluted insecticidal soap if infestations occur.
• Fungal Issues: Ensure proper air circulation by spacing plants correctly and avoiding overhead watering.

Harvesting Lavender

Harvesting should ideally occur when blooms are fully opened but still vibrant:

1. Cut stems early in the morning when essential oils are at their peak.
2. Gather stems into small bundles and hang upside down in a cool, dark place with good ventilation until dried.

Uses of Harvested Lavender

Once harvested, dried lavender can be used in numerous ways:

• Creating potpourri
• Making sachets
• Infusing oils or honey
• Adding flavor to culinary dishes

Conclusion

Growing lavender in New Mexico can not only beautify your garden but also provide scents that soothe the soul while attracting beneficial pollinators. With careful attention to site selection, soil preparation, watering habits, and regular maintenance, you can cultivate thriving plants that yield an abundance of flowers each season.

Whether you’re using lavender for personal enjoyment or considering commercial production, this aromatic herb can flourish beautifully across New Mexico’s diverse landscapes. Embrace its beauty and benefits as you embark on your gardening journey!