If you’re wondering when to plant lavender in Maryland, timing is everything for success. The best planting times for this fragrant herb depend on understanding our local climate, from the mountains to the coast.
Getting the timing right means your lavender will have the best chance to establish strong roots before facing summer heat or winter cold. This guide will walk you through the ideal windows and give you tips to ensure your plants thrive for years.
When to Plant Lavender in Maryland – Best Planting Times for
For most of Maryland, the prime planting season is in the spring, after the last frost has passed. The ideal window is typically from mid-April to late May. This gives the plant a long growing season to settle in.
Fall planting is also an option, but it requires more care. Aim for early September to mid-October. This allows about 6-8 weeks for roots to establish before the ground freezes.
Why Spring Planting is Often Best
Spring is the most recommended time for beginners. The soil is warming up, and rain is usually reliable. Your lavender gets a full season to grow before its first winter.
- Roots establish in warm, workable soil.
- Plants can focus energy on growth, not surviving cold.
- You’ll often see blooms in the first summer.
The Case for Fall Planting
Fall planting can work well if you’re prepared. The cooler air reduces transplant shock, and the soil is still warm from summer. The key is giving it enough time.
- Less watering stress with cooler temperatures.
- Plants get a head start on root growth for spring.
- Often fewer pests and diseases are active.
The risk is an early, hard freeze that damages tender new roots. If you plant in fall, be ready to provide winter protection like mulch.
Regional Differences Across Maryland
Maryland’s planting zones range from 6a to 8a. This makes a big difference in your schedule.
Western Maryland (Zones 6a-6b)
Frosts linger longer here. Wait until late May for spring planting. Fall planting should be done by early September.
Piedmont & Central MD (Zones 7a-7b)
This includes Baltimore and Columbia. Your safe spring window opens in mid-to-late April. You can plant through early October in fall.
Southern & Coastal MD (Zones 7b-8a)
Areas like Annapolis and the Eastern Shore warm up first. You can often plant as early as early April. Fall planting can stretch into late October.
How to Choose the Right Lavender for Maryland
Not all lavenders handle Maryland’s humid summers and wet winters well. Selecting a hardy variety is half the battle.
- English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): The top choice. Look for ‘Munstead’, ‘Hidcote’, or ‘Phenomenal’. They are more tolerant of humidity and cold.
- Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia): A hybrid, like ‘Grosso’, that does well with good drainage.
- Spanish or French Lavender: These are less hardy and often treated as annuals here. They struggle with our winters.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
Once you’ve got your timing down, proper planting sets the stage.
1. Site Selection is Key
Lavender demands full sun—at least 6-8 hours of direct light. More sun means more blooms and better fragrance. Good air circulation helps prevent fungal disease in our humidity.
2. Prepare the Soil
This is the most critical step for Maryland gardeners. Lavender needs alkaline, very well-draining soil. Our native clay is its worst enemy.
- Dig a hole about twice as wide and deep as the pot.
- Create a mix of 1/3 original soil, 1/3 coarse sand or grit, and 1/3 compost or peat moss.
- Consider planting in a raised mound or raised bed to ensure drainage.
3. Planting Your Lavender
- Water the plant in its pot lightly before removing.
- Gently loosen the roots if they are pot-bound.
- Place it in the hole so the crown (where stem meets roots) is slightly above soil level. This prevents rot.
- Backfill with your soil mix and firm gently.
- Water thoroughly to settle the soil.
4. Initial Care After Planting
Water your new lavender once or twice a week for the first month, allowing the soil to dry between. Then, taper off. Established lavender is very drought-tolerant. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can cause weak, floppy growth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Planting in shade or poor soil: This is the main reason lavender fails here.
- Overwatering: Lavender hates wet feet. When in doubt, don’t water.
- Using heavy mulch: Avoid organic mulch that holds moisture against the stem. Use gravel or stone instead.
- Pruning at the wrong time: Prune lightly in early spring, never cutting into old wood in fall.
Caring for Lavender Through the Seasons
Spring is for pruning and a light feeding. Summer is for enjoying the blooms and cutting for drying. In fall, resist the urge to prune. Let the plant prepare for dormancy.
Winter care involves ensuring good drainage. A light covering of straw or evergreen boughs can be used for protection in very cold areas, but remove it in early spring to prevent mold.
FAQ: Your Lavender Questions Answered
Can I plant lavender in Maryland in the summer?
It’s not ideal. The heat and humidity stress new plants. If you must, plant in early morning on a cloudy day and water very carefully, but success rates are lower.
What is the absolute best month to plant lavender in Maryland?
For most of the state, May is the safest and most reliable month for spring planting. The soil is warm, and frost danger is past.
Does lavender come back every year in Maryland?
Yes, if you choose a hardy English variety and plant it in well-drained soil. It’s a perennial that should return for many years with proper care.
How do I protect my lavender in a wet Maryland winter?
Good drainage from day one is your best protection. You can also add a thin layer of gravel around the base to keep the crown dry. Avoid letting leaves pile up on it.
Why did my lavender die over the winter?
Winter wetness, not cold, is the usual culpret. Soggy soil rots the roots. Heavy snow or ice cover can also smother the plant. Improving drainage is essential for replanting.
By following these timing and care tips, you can enjoy the beauty and scent of lavender in your Maryland garden. Remember, patience and good drainage are your best tools. With a little planning, you’ll have thriving plants that greet you each spring.