Vera Lavender, the original species of English lavender, has fragrant flowers that dry well and neat, bushy growth. It is also one of the hardiest of all lavenders. Originally growing wild in the mountains of the Mediterranean region, lavender is one of the most versatile of herbs; in addition to its myriad medicinal uses, it is commonly used for cosmetic, aromatherapy, culinary, and decorative purposes. In ancient Egypt it was used as a perfume and as an essential ingredient in incense, while the Greeks and Romans scented their bath water with its fragrant petals. In medieval times, lavender protected sickrooms from insects and infection as well as being an ingredient in smelling salts. Rene Gattefosse, one of the first scientists to research aromatherapy, found that applying lavender essential oil greatly improved the healing of burns. Today there are about 20 main species of Lavandula angustifolia with hundreds of variations; countries all over the world produce lavender commercially, mostly for use in essential oil for decorative purposes.

As a member of the mint family with fragrant flowers and leaves, Lavender is used medicinally, due to its antioxidants and herbal properties which can be made into essential oil”helping calm the nerves and anxiety. The earthy scent of Lavender also helps with sleep and is a soothing aromatherapy. Common Lavender also contains antiseptic oils that can be applied topically to aid skin irritations.

Leave one seedling to grow per plant pod and these will sprout within 7-30 days and will be ready to harvest as it reaches a desirable size. Lavender  grows best at temperatures of 17°-27°.

The best time to harvest lavender is in the morning after the dew has dried. For drying, harvest stalks with just a few buds open; at this stage the fragrant oils have reached their peak. For fresh use, harvest stalks with more of the buds open. Dry bundles of lavender upside down in a cool, dark place for a week or more; to save the buds, strip them from the stalks.

The proper amount of moisture is crucial to young lavender plants. Too much water is deadly, but until they are established they need soil that is fairly moist. Mature plants can tolerate drought conditions, but must not become dehydrated. Mulching the plants with gravel or small shells can be helpful to absorb heat and control weeds; being a Mediterranean plant, lavender loves rocky soil. In the plant’s first year of growth, pruning the flowers that appear will help it to grow healthy roots and foliage. Mature plants also benefit from yearly, careful pruning.