Planting instructions:

Sowing: Refrigerate the English lavender seeds for a month before planting. Plant them just below the surface in soil that drains well, and keep them at a temperature of 60-64 degrees F. Keep the soil moist with a spray bottle to prevent over watering, and shield them from the hottest sun. Germination may take up to a month, and plants will reach a suitable size for transplanting in about 6 months; transplanting can take place either in late spring or fall. Transplant them to bigger pots as carefully as possible to avoid disturbing the roots. Lavender plants prefer full sun and soil that drains well, even rocky or sandy soil. Plant them 24-36" apart in rows 30-36" apart to allow enough space for growth. With proper handling, English lavender seeds can grow in containers; lavender also makes an excellent hedge that attracts birds, bees, and butterflies and repels deer and rabbits.

Growing: 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.

Harvesting: 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.

Seed Saving: In the late summer, the flowers will fade and the seeds begin to develop. Remove the stalks individually as they begin to dry and the seeds mature, and spread them out to finish drying away from direct sunlight. Thresh them to remove the seed. Store the seed in a cool, dry place.