Introduction to Hidcote Lavender
Lavender is a lovely and popular flowering herb, widely cherished for its fragrance and versatility. In my garden, I grow Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English Lavender. The specific variety I have is called Hidcote, a relatively compact lavender with deep purple flowers. This blog post will guide you through the essentials of growing and harvesting Hidcote lavender.
Growing Hidcote Lavender
Hidcote lavender is both versatile and easy to grow, making it a favorite among gardeners. It thrives in well-drained soil and requires full sun to flourish. Planting Hidcote on the sunny fringe of a forest garden can provide an excellent habitat for wildlife, attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
Regular pruning is essential for maintaining the plant’s health and encouraging new growth. Trimming back the foliage in early spring helps to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged stems. During the summer months, you should also cut back the spent blooms to promote continuous flowering.
Harvesting Lavender Blooms
August is the prime time for harvesting lavender, as the plants are in full bloom. However, cutting lavender blooms is something you can and should do regularly over the summer months. Regular harvesting not only provides you with an abundance of fragrant flowers for various projects but also encourages new blooms to emerge.
To harvest, use sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the stems just above the leaves, taking care not to damage the plant. The best time to harvest is in the morning after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day sets in. This ensures that the essential oils in the flowers are at their peak concentration.
Uses for Harvested Lavender
Once you have harvested your Hidcote lavender, there are countless ways to use it around your home. The dried flowers can be used in sachets, potpourri, or even culinary dishes. Additionally, lavender essential oil can be extracted for use in aromatherapy and homemade beauty products. The possibilities are endless, making lavender a truly versatile herb.
