Growing lavender from seed may take patience, but it’s an incredibly rewarding process that allows you to cultivate a variety of lavender species right from the start. Whether you’re growing English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) or experimenting with different types, the key is knowing how to improve germination and give your tiny lavender seedlings the best possible start.
If this is your first time starting lavender seeds, you may have heard that they have a low germination rate. But don’t let that discourage you. With the right techniques, such as cold stratification and providing plenty of light, you can greatly increase your chances of success.
This guide will walk you through every step, from indoor sowing to transplanting into garden beds for thriving lavender plants.
Why Grow Lavender from Seeds?
Many people opt for lavender cuttings or nursery plants, but growing from seed has its advantages.
- More variety. You can choose from many types, including heirloom and specialty varieties.
- Cost-effective. A single seed packet can yield multiple plants for the price of one nursery-grown plant.
- Rewarding experience. Watching lavender seedlings grow from tiny seeds to fragrant plants is incredibly satisfying.
The first step is choosing high-quality seeds and preparing them correctly to ensure higher germination rates.
How to Increase Lavender Seed Germination
One reason lavender seeds can be tricky to grow is their need for a cold period before germination. In nature, they experience a period of cold temperatures during winter, which helps them sprout in spring. To replicate this process, you need to cold stratify the seeds before planting.
What is Cold Stratification?
Stratification is the process of exposing seeds to cold and moisture to encourage germination. According to Gardening Know How, Many plants require a period of cold temperatures to break their dormancy cycle. Woody plants and herbaceous perennials are some of the more common species.
Some seeds have a tough outer shell designed to prevent premature germination in unfavorable conditions. As Better Homes and Gardens explains that many perennials produce seeds in late summer or fall. If they germinated immediately, their seedlings would likely not survive winter. Therefore, before they germinate, they have to experience a period of cold temperatures first. This is also known as seed stratification (or cold stratification).
What does this mean for your lavender seeds? As a gardener, you’ll need to simulate that natural cold period to soften the seed coat and encourage the lavender plant to sprout successfully.
Cold Stratification Methods
There are a few different ways to do this. Let me teach you.
- Moist Paper Towel Method (Easy & Quick)
- Place seeds on a wet paper towel and fold it over.
- Put the paper towel inside a ziplock bag and store it in the fridge for 3-4 weeks.
- Check weekly to ensure the towel stays moist but not soggy.
- Milk Jugs or Small Containers (Winter Sowing Method)
- Scatter seeds inside a milk jug or clear container filled with soil.
- Place outdoors where they can experience natural cold temperatures before sprouting in spring.
- Direct Sowing in the Fridge
- Sow seeds in small pots, lightly mist with water, and place in a plastic container.
- Store in the fridge for about 30 days before moving to a warm spot.
After completing cold stratification, you’ll have a much higher germination rate when you start growing them indoors.
How to Start Lavender Seeds in a Paper Towel
Another option that works very well for starting seeds is using paper towels. Here’s what you need to know.
What You Need
- Lavender seeds
- Moist paper towel
- Ziplock bag or plastic container
- Refrigerator
- Sunny window or grow light for after germination
Getting the Seeds in the Paper Towels
Moisten the Paper Towel. Dampen a paper towel with water. It should be moist but not dripping. Lay it flat on a clean surface.
Spread the lavender seeds evenly over one half of the towel. Fold the paper towel over the seeds, gently pressing it down.
Place the folded moist paper towel inside a ziplock bag or airtight container.
Label it with the date and the variety of lavender seeds.
Cold Stratify in the Fridge
Store the bag in the refrigerator for 3-4 weeks to simulate a natural cold period. Check weekly to ensure the towel stays moist but not moldy.
Transfer to Soil After Stratification
After the cold stratification period, remove the seeds and check for any early sprouting. Sow them in small pots with well-draining soil, keeping them under a grow light or in a sunny window.
By using this method, you’ll achieve a much higher germination rate compared to planting lavender seeds directly in soil. This is a great option for first-time growers who want the best results with their lavender seedlings.
How to Start Lavender Seeds Indoors
Here’s an alternative way to start seeds. For best results, start your seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before your last frost date. Since lavender seeds need warmth and plenty of light to germinate, a heat mat and grow light can help speed up the process.
Step-by-Step Indoor Sowing Guide
- Prepare Your Seed Trays
- Fill seed trays or small pots with well-draining soil (a mix of potting soil and sand works well).
- Lightly mist the soil so it’s damp but not soggy.
- Plant the Seeds
- Scatter the seeds on top of the soil and gently press them down.
- Do not bury them deeply. Lavender seeds need light to germinate.
- Provide Warmth and Light
- Place the tray in a warm location (65-70°F). A heat mat can speed up germination.Use a grow light or place the tray in a sunny window with at least 12-16 hours of light daily.
- If using seedling lights, keep them about 2 inches above the seedlings.
- Keep Soil Moist but Not Wet
- Mist the soil as needed to keep it from drying out.
- Avoid overwatering, as too much moisture can cause fungal issues.
Germination can take anywhere from two to four weeks, so be patient. If you don’t see growth, don’t worry. Try adjusting temperature or light and next time, consider an extended cold period for better results.
Caring for Lavender Seedlings
Once your lavender seedlings emerge, it’s important to provide the right care.
- Thinning. Once seedlings have a couple of true leaves, thin them to avoid overcrowding.
- Watering. Keep watering light; lavender prefers dry conditions over soggy soil.
- Transplanting. When seedlings have at least 3-4 sets of leaves, start preparing them for outdoor life.
Transplanting Lavender into Your Garden Beds
Lavender thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, so choose a location with:
At least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight
Sandy, loamy soil with good drainage
Enough space (12-18 inches apart for airflow)
Harden Off Before Transplanting
Before moving seedlings outside, gradually expose them to outdoor conditions for 7-10 days. This prevents shock and helps them adjust.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Low Germination Rate?
- Try cold stratifying for a longer period next time.
- Use a heat mat to maintain the right temperature.
Seedlings Too Leggy?
- Move them closer to a grow light or into a sunny window.
- Provide at least 12-16 hours of light daily.
Yellowing or Weak Plants?
- Reduce watering; lavender prefers drier conditions.
- Check for poor drainage—use sandier soil if needed.
Growing lavender from seeds requires patience, but with the right techniques, you can successfully start your own lavender plants from scratch. By using cold stratification, providing plenty of light, and keeping an eye on soil conditions, you’ll have strong, healthy plants ready to thrive in your garden beds.
References
Better Homes & Gardens. What Is Seed Stratification? Plus, How to Stratify Seeds for Planting.
Gardening Know How. How To Stratify Seeds: Boost Germination With Cold Treatment.
