Lavender (Lavandula) is a stunning and fragrant plant that originates from the Mediterranean. Many gardeners integrate lavender into their landscapes with great success. However, there may come a time when you notice your lavender plants are not thriving as they should be. If you find yourself in this situation, you might be wondering why your lavender is dying and how you can revive it. In this article, we will explore some common reasons why lavender plants struggle and provide tips on how to restore them to their full glory.
Why is My Lavender Plant Dying?
If you observe that your lavender plant is looking a bit under the weather, the first step is to identify the cause. Lavender plants can be quite particular, and there are a few factors that may be contributing to their decline. Firstly, lavender requires well-draining soil with a pH level of 6 to 8. You can conduct a soil test to determine if the pH needs adjustment. To raise the pH, simply amend the soil with limestone.
Another essential requirement for lavender is plenty of sunlight. As a Mediterranean plant, lavender thrives in six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. However, newly planted lavender may not yet be able to tolerate intense heat. It is advisable to plant them in early to mid-spring, allowing them time to acclimate before the scorching temperatures of summer set in.
Sometimes, what may appear to be a dying lavender plant is actually just in a dormant state. Dormancy occurs when temperatures cool down, and sunlight becomes less abundant. A dead lavender plant will exhibit no signs of green foliage, and its branches will appear brown and hollow.
Temperature fluctuations can also contribute to the demise of your lavender plant. While mature lavender can withstand snowy conditions, chilly temperatures can take a toll. Mature lavender plants can tolerate lows of 10 degrees Fahrenheit (-12 degrees Celsius). However, newly planted lavenders may not survive temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius) at night.
Lavender in Pots: An Extra Challenge
Growing lavender in pots presents some additional considerations. If you have potted lavender that seems to be fading, there are a few possible reasons. The plant may be over or underwatered, the soil may not be suitable for lavender, the plant may be too small, it may be receiving excessive sunlight, or it may require fertilization.
Similar to lavender in the ground, potted lavender can be affected by cold temperatures. It is a good idea to protect potted lavender when temperatures drop by moving the plant indoors to a garage, covering it, or applying a thick layer of mulch.
Both potted lavender and those planted in the earth can suffer from over or underwatering. Overwatered lavender may exhibit yellowing leaves, primarily starting from the lower leaves. Additionally, you may notice drooping, a rotting odor, and excessively moist soil. On the other hand, underwatered lavender will droop, and the soil will feel completely dried out. To properly water potted lavender, thoroughly soak the soil and then allow the top inch (2.5 cm) to dry out completely before watering again.
Other Factors Leading to Dying Lavender Plants
Root rot is a common issue caused by excessive watering, resulting in lavender plants dying. If you suspect root rot, it is crucial to act swiftly to save the plant. Remove the plant from the soil, trim off any affected roots, and then replant the lavender in well-draining soil.
Insects can also contribute to the death of lavender plants. Spittlebugs and froghoppers are sap-sucking insects that can wreak havoc on plants. You can identify their presence by the white, frothy blobs that appear on the stems and leaves of infested plants.
The four-lined plant bug (FLPB) is another sap-sucking insect that feeds on new leaves and stems from late May to early July. Infected leaves develop uniform white or gray dots. While this damage is generally more cosmetic than fatal, it can impact the plant’s appearance negatively.
Disease can also be a culprit in lavender deterioration. Septoria leaf spot, caused by a fungus, weakens plants in late summer to early fall, especially in humid and wet conditions. Round spots on the leaves are a telltale sign of this fungal disease, which spreads through wind dispersal.
Lavender shab is another fungal disease that leads to twisted, brown stems and tiny black dots on the stem. This disease is highly contagious, so it is vital to remove infected plants and dispose of them properly.
How to Revive Your Lavender
If you suspect root rot, prune the affected roots and replant the lavender in well-draining soil. For both potted and ground-planted lavender, ensure they receive six to eight hours of sunlight each day.
When watering your lavender, make sure to water deeply and wait for the top inch (2.5 cm) of the soil to dry out before watering again. To minimize the risk of fungal diseases, water at the base of the plant and avoid wetting the foliage.
Lavender naturally becomes leggy, with open and woody regions in the center of the plant. Before new growth begins, prune the plant back by one third to one half to promote healthy growth.
Lastly, testing your soil is crucial. Lavender thrives in soil with a pH level of 6 to 8. If necessary, raise the pH by incorporating limestone into the soil.
By understanding the specific needs of your lavender plants and addressing any issues promptly, you can revive them and enjoy the beauty and fragrance they bring to your garden.
