Lavender Propagation Failing? It’s All About Timing and the Right Mix

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 If you’ve tried to propagate lavender and failed, you’re not alone. It’s a common challenge for gardeners, but the reasons are almost always simple: the timing was wrong, or the rooting mix was a “death sentence.” Lavender has a few specific needs when it comes to propagation, and getting these two factors right will dramatically increase your success rate.

This guide will show you how to avoid the most common mistakes and successfully propagate your lavender.

Mistake #1: Taking the Cutting at the Wrong Time

A lavender cutting needs to be just right—not too new and not too old.

  • The Right Season: The best time to take a cutting is in late spring or early summer, after the plant has had its first flush of blooms. The new growth should be firm but still flexible. This is called “semi-hardwood.”
  • What to Avoid:
    • New, Soft Growth: Cuttings from brand new, soft green growth are too fragile and will likely rot before they can grow roots.
    • Old, Woody Stems: Cuttings taken from the old, brown, woody base of the plant are too hard and will not produce new roots.

Mistake #2: Using the Wrong Rooting Mix

Standard potting soil is the biggest mistake you can make. It holds too much water and will kill your cutting.

  • The Right Substrate: Lavender cuttings need a sterile, very well-draining, and low-nutrient substrate. The goal is to provide a clean environment that lets roots form without keeping the stem wet. The best choices are:
    • Perlite: This is an excellent choice on its own or mixed with sand. It provides great aeration and drainage.
    • Sand: Coarse builder’s sand (not play sand) is a simple, effective option.
    • A Blend: A mix of half perlite and half coarse sand or a sterile cutting mix from a nursery is ideal.
  • How to Use It: Fill a small pot with your chosen mix. Use a pencil or chopstick to poke a hole, then gently place the cutting in it. Never just push the cutting in, as this can damage the stem.
Lavender

Lavender

A Few More Tips for Success

  • Don’t Overwater: Your cutting needs moisture, but the substrate should never be soggy. Keep the medium lightly moist.
  • Provide Humidity: To prevent the cutting from drying out, place a clear plastic bag or a plastic dome over the pot to create a mini-greenhouse.
  • Use Rooting Hormone: While not strictly necessary, using a rooting hormone powder will greatly increase your chances of success.

By paying close attention to these two key factors—timing and substrate—you’ll be well on your way to propagating a beautiful new lavender plant.

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