How to revive lavender plants?

[CarlL]

Hi,

Some stems of my lavender are turning brown. Is that a sign of drying/dying? Too much sun?

Over the last 2 months, we have suffered lots of heatwaves. Should I get my lavender covered? e.g. putting up shade mesh.

Any ideas on what is going on with my plants? Any measures I could take to revitalise them?

TIA

[JacobZ]

Hi @CarlL,

Thank you for your question about your lavender plants.

Browning and woody stems on lavender can be a sign of the plant aging, which is normal, as lavender naturally becomes woody at the base over time. Your plant however looks healthy and there doesn't appear to be any cause for concern.

Lavender is heat and drought-tolerant, but prolonged heatwaves can still be taxing. Partial shade during the hottest part of the day would certainly be worthwhile. You could create a small shade cover from shade cloth and garden stakes to protect it during the harshest parts of the day.

An application of All Purpose Controlled Release Fertiliser accompanied by infrequent, deep watering would also help your lavender to thrive.

Allow me to tag @mich1972 and @Noelle to see if they have any other observations to add.

I'd also suggest having a read through How To Plant, Grow And Harvest Lavender for some further information.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[Noelle]

Hi @CarlL 

Drooping flower stalks are a good sign the plants are wilting due to lack of moisture, while the browning is simply the maturing of the current season's shoots as the season progresses. It's absolutely normal and nothing to be concerned about, unless the leaves also turn brown.

[CarlL]

Thank you @JacobZ so much for the info.