Lavender Munstead Seed

A compact English lavender variety forming dense mounds of silvery foliage topped with fragrant violet purple flower spikes; prized for its classic perfume, early summer flowering and excellent suitability for borders, edging and low hedging.

 

Munstead is hardy, drought tolerant once established and ideal for pollinator friendly gardens, herb beds and dried flower use.

 

Seed Qty Approx 150

 

Sow February to April under cover or March to May for outdoor sowing

Germination 14 to 28 days at 15 to 20°C; cold stratify for 4 to 6 weeks to improve germination on older seed

Soil Free draining poor to moderately fertile soil; neutral to slightly alkaline; avoid heavy waterlogged soils

Height 30 to 45 cm; spread 40 to 60 cm depending on spacing and conditions

Flowering Early to mid summer; compact habit encourages tidy displays and repeat flowering when deadheaded

Good Companions Roses; santolina; thyme; rosemary; pollinator friendly herb and perennial mixes

Avoid Pairing With Very Moist or Shade Loving Plants that will not suit Lavender's dry sun loving preference

 

Sowing Instructions

 

Sow thinly in trays or modules February to April and cover lightly with a fine dusting of compost or vermiculite; keep at 15 to 20°C and maintain even moisture. Cold stratify seeds for 4 to 6 weeks before sowing to improve uniformity if germination is slow. Prick out seedlings into small pots when large enough to handle and grow on in a sunny position before planting out after all risk of frost. For outdoor sowing choose March to May and protect young plants from winter wet.

 

Grow and Maintenance

 

Plant in full sun in free draining soil and avoid over rich feeding which encourages floppy growth. Water sparingly once established and apply a light annual trim after flowering to maintain compact shape and prevent woodiness. Mulch with grit or sharp sand in heavy soils to improve drainage. Harvest flower spikes when in full bloom for drying or use fresh in potpourri and culinary preparations. Divide or replace aging clumps every few years to maintain vigour.

 

Mr Fothergill's Range Seeds