25 Hidcote Blue Lavender Seeds, Lavandula Angustifolia Hidcote Blue Strain

Sowing **Lavandula angustifolia**, or true lavender, is an accessible method for growing this aromatic and ornamental plant, known for its fragrant flowers and soothing properties. Here is a detailed guide to successfully sowing **Lavandula angustifolia**:

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### **Steps for sowing Lavandula angustifolia**

#### **1. Sowing period:**
- **Spring**: From March to May, after the last frosts.
- **Autumn**: Possible, especially in regions with mild winters, with natural stratification during winter.

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#### **2. Harvesting seeds:**
- Seeds are found in dried flowers. Harvest them once the flowers are completely dry.

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#### **3. Seed preparation:**
Lavender seeds benefit from cold stratification to improve their germination rate.

##### **Cold stratification:**
1. **Soaking**:
- Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for **12 hours**.
2. **Stratification**:
- Place the seeds in a plastic bag containing a moist mixture of sand and peat.
- Store them in the refrigerator at a temperature of **4°C** for **4 to 6 weeks**.

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#### **4. Preparation of the substrate or soil:**
- **Substrate type**:
- Well-drained, light and poor mixture, composed of seed compost and sand (2:1).
- **Preparation in open ground**:
- Loosen the soil to a depth of 15 to 20 cm, and add sand if the soil is too heavy.
- **pH** :
- Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5 to 8).

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#### **5. Sowing seeds:**

##### **In pots or crates (recommended method)**:
1. **Filling**:
- Fill the pots or boxes with the prepared substrate.
2. **Seed Arrangement**:
- Sow the seeds on the surface and cover them lightly with a thin layer of substrate (approximately **1 to 2 mm**).
3. **Watering**:
- Lightly moisten with a spray bottle.
4. **Placement**:
- Place the pots in a warm, bright place, but out of direct sunlight.

##### **In open ground:**
1. **Soil preparation**:
- Loosen and clean the area.
2. **Seed Arrangement**:
- Sow the seeds directly on the surface and tamp down lightly to ensure good contact with the soil.
3. **Watering**:
- Water gently to moisten the area.

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#### **6. Germination conditions:**
- **Ideal temperature**:
- Between **18°C and 22°C**.
- **Humidity** :
- Keep the substrate or soil slightly moist, but not excessively so.
- **Germination time**:
- Seeds usually germinate in **2-4 weeks**, but it can take up to **6 weeks**.

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#### **7. Care after germination:**
1. **Lightening**:
- When the seedlings reach **5 cm**, thin them out to leave **15 cm** between each plant.
2. **Watering**:
- Water lightly and regularly, avoiding soaking the soil.
3. **Light**:
- Provide abundant light or sun exposure.

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#### **8. Transplanting (for seedlings in pots)**:
- **When to transplant**:
- When the young plants measure approximately **10 cm** and have several leaves.
- **Method** :
- Transplant directly into open ground or into individual pots, spacing **30 to 50 cm**.

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#### **9. Final planting:**
1. **Location**:
- Choose a location in full sun with well-drained soil.
2. **Spacing**:
- Leave **30 to 50 cm** between the plants to allow them to develop.

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#### **10. Long-term maintenance:**
1. **Watering**:
- Lavender tolerates drought well once established. Water only in case of prolonged drought.
2. **Size** :
- Prune lightly after flowering to stimulate new growth and maintain a compact shape.
3. **Fertilization**:
- No particular need, but a light addition of compost in the spring can be beneficial.
4. **Winter protection**:
- In cold regions, apply mulch around young plants to protect the roots.

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### **Additional Tips:**
1. **Hardiness**:
- **Lavandula angustifolia** is hardy and can tolerate temperatures down to **-15°C**.
2. **Use**:
- Ideal for borders, rockeries, or as an ornamental and aromatic plant.
3. **Ecological appeal**:
- Lavender attracts bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity in the garden.

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### **Conclusion :**
Sowing **Lavandula angustifolia** is an economical and satisfying way to grow this iconic plant. With a little patience and proper care, it will bring beauty, fragrance, and ecological appeal to your garden. 🌱🌸