In itself, the French lavender is a perennial plant that can be eight to ten years old with good care - sometimes even more.
Caring for perennial French lavender properly
In order for the French lavender to reach such an age, however, it must be cared for accordingly. Above all, this includes overwintering the plant properly. Unlike true lavender - which after all originates from the harsher mountainous regions of the Mediterranean - this lavender variety is not hardy. The French lavender may survive temperatures just below freezing point for a short time, but it cannot cope with permanent frosts and, above all, strong winds with precipitation. Therefore, the plant should best overwinter under cold house conditions, i. H. cool and bright, but free from frost and sheltered from adverse weather conditions.
Special feature: lime-free soil
Actually, lavender loves alkaline, i. H. calcareous soil and should also be fertilized with a little lime from time to time. However, this advice does not apply to French lavender - lime is deadly for it. Therefore, if possible, you prefer a neutral, if not slightly acidic, pH for this wild beauty. Watering with tap water is also not recommended, as this always contains more or less lime. It is better to use rainwater or, if necessary, use stale tap water (leave it for at least a week and do not use the last bit of water from the container for watering!).
French lavender sows itself
If the French lavender feels good, it will even sow itself after a few years. All you have to do is leave the faded stems on the plant - don't cut them off in summer - and wait for spring. The mature seeds fall to the ground by themselves and germinate if there has been a corresponding cold period. French lavender is a cool germinator, i. H. the seeds need between 0 to 5 °C to be stimulated to germinate. However, if you need to overwinter the plant indoors, you can cut off the flower stalks and simply leave them outside in the garden.
tips and tricks
Don't be surprised if your freshly planted French lavender isn't blooming yet - young plants are often quite lazy and only get going late. See if the lavender has everything it needs and otherwise be patient.
IJA