It’s interesting how our past experiences eventually catch up with us. During my childhood, I lived in a house that overlooked the bustling main street of our village. From the kitchen window, I could observe people going about their daily lives, whether it was the school run or visiting a friend. In the small space between the window and the pavement, my mother maintained a charming flower bed filled with fragrant lavender. During the peak of summer, it buzzed with the activity of bees and was occasionally touched by the hands of passersby, eager to catch a whiff of its delightful scent.
This memory came rushing back to me last April when, after a leisurely lunch with a friend at Columbia Road market in east London, I impulsively purchased a tray of lavender plants. Fuelled by a glass of red wine, I planted them in the gravel of our front yard. Now, a year and a season later, these plants have flourished beyond my expectations. They have grown into tall spires of pale purple flowers, attracting a tremendous number of bees.
Lavender can be a bit temperamental if not given the right conditions. It despises soggy soil and will protest by producing weak, drooping flower stems and even developing moldy leaves. Insufficient sunlight or cramped space can also hinder its growth. However, when placed in an ideal location, lavender thrives with minimal intervention. It prefers open areas with ample sunshine and well-draining soil, just like my neglected front yard. Additionally, lavender is drought-tolerant, to the extent that I don’t recall ever having to water them since the indulgent day of their planting.
Choosing the right variety of lavender is crucial as well. It’s easy to be captivated by the plump, darker flowers and distinctive bracts of French lavender (Lavandula stoechas). However, the more minimalistic English lavender, such as the ‘Hidcote’ variety, is better equipped to endure cold weather and attract bees. I also appreciate the beauty of white lavender, particularly the ‘Ballerina’ variety, with its long-lasting flowering period and delicately ruffled bracts reminiscent of lingerie.
While the flowers steal the show, we must not forget the significance of foliage. It remains present throughout most of the year, offering appealing tufts of texture and color. Soft grey foliage provides a splendid backdrop for other vibrantly blooming plants, such as the ‘Sussex,’ ‘Sawyers,’ and the intricately crinkled leaves of the ‘L dentata var. denata’ ‘Royal Crown.’ On the other hand, ‘Willow Vale’ features greener leaves that blend harmoniously with different foliage types.
The current time is opportune for pruning lavender. Once the plants have ceased flowering but haven’t yet turned brown, feel free to trim them back. Don’t hesitate to use sharp scissors or secateurs to cut through the tougher sections, leaving a small portion of new growth on the stem. Aim to create a neat mound shape for the plants.
In addition to their visual appeal, lavender flowers can also be brought indoors. Gather them into bunches and hang them upside down from various household items. As they dry out, they will continue to emit the invigorating scent of summer, filling your home with a delightful aroma for weeks on end.
Remember, gardening can be a rewarding and creatively fulfilling endeavor. Participating in such activities allows us to reconnect with nature, form cherished memories, and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. So, why not indulge in the joy of gardensitting and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature?
If you’re interested in further exploring the world of gardening, you may find this related article intriguing: “The Joy of Gardensitting – Very Little Work and a Lot of Reward”. It offers valuable insights and tips on how to make the most of your gardening experiences.
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So, join us in celebrating the wonders of lavender and the joys of gardening. Create a serene sanctuary in your own front yard or backyard, and embrace the beauty that nature bestows upon us.
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