Lavender - French
This lavender features flaring petals from compact bracts on crown slender stems. It produces very attractive bushes of aromatic grey/green foliage. It was favoured by citizens of the Roman Empire for fragrance. It is easy to grow and trouble free.
Sow in trays or pots of good seed compost in a propagator or warm place to maintain an optimum temperature of 60-65F. Sow in well drained compost, just covering the seed with compost. Sow at any time of year. Germination can be slow. After sowing, seal container in a polythene bag and leave at 15-18C for 2 weeks, then place in a refrigerator (not freezer) for 3-6 weeks. After this return to the recommended germination temperature. If germination does not occur in 6-10 weeks return to the fridge for a further 3-6 weeks. Examine regularly whilst in the fridge and remove immediately the seeds show signs of germinating. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle into 7.5cm pots. Grow on in a cold frame and plant out the following spring. Space the plants 3cm apart in full sun. Prefers a well-drained soil.