The Queen of Herbs: A Detailed Guide to Lavender Planting Methods and Blooming Times in Ili, Xinjiang

Lavender is also known as the perfume plant, spirit fragrance herb, herb, yellow fragrance herb, and lavender (Lavandula). Lavender is also known as the “Queen of Herbs.” Richly romantic lavender not only has extremely high ornamental value but also extremely high medicinal value. Therefore, more and more people in China are growing lavender. So how do you plant lavender? When does it bloom?

In botanical classification, lavender belongs to the genus Lavandula in the family Lamiaceae, with about 28 species, and is a perennial herb or shrub. Lavender is an important aromatic economic plant; the plant stays evergreen year-round and carries a fragrant scent. The flowers are usually purple, blue, pink, white, and other colors, with very high ornamental value. It is a plant material for arranging flowerbeds, flower borders, and creating flower seas and other garden landscapes, while also having good practical value in medicine, health care, and chemical applications.

How do you plant lavender seeds?

1. Sowing time for lavender seeds

The sowing time for lavender seeds is very important. Try not to sow out of season, as the results will be very poor, because lavender is not heat-tolerant, so the best sowing season for lavender is mainly spring. Of course, autumn sowing is also possible. The best germination temperature for lavender seeds is 15°C-20°C.

2. Sowing method for lavender

Lavender seeds can be broadcast sown, with about 3 mm of soil covering the surface. As for the medium, ordinary medium will do; try to ensure air permeability and water permeability. After sowing, soak the flowerpot in water (the water level only needs to reach the middle of the pot) so the pot absorbs water from the bottom. After a few minutes of soaking, it can be taken out.

Before lavender seeds germinate, it is best to place them in a cool place. Generally, they will germinate in about 5-10 days. After germination, move the lavender to a bright place for care. Because it is broadcast sown, the sprouts may be very dense, so appropriate thinning is needed (that is, pulling out the excess seedlings). After lavender germinates, keep the environment dry to cultivate the seedlings, and do not allow waterlogging.

3. Planting out lavender

After lavender grows 6-7 leaves, it can be planted out. After planting out, it can be grown in a sunny environment. The planting out method is the same as for other plants. Of course, it is also fine not to plant it out and just care for it directly, depending on the specific conditions of the grower.

4. Daily care of lavender

Lavender likes a dry and sunny environment and dislikes waterlogging, so never water it too much. Most cases of lavender withering are caused by excessive watering. Simply put, it should be kept on the dry side, including the moisture of the potting soil, which should also be kept as dry as possible.

5. Lavender cuttings

In spring and autumn, choose new branches without flower spikes, cut them diagonally at 45°, then soak them in water overnight, and then cuttings can begin. After cutting, place them in a cool place. They will root in about three weeks. New buds on the branches are a sign of success, and they can then be transplanted into flowerpots for normal care.

When does lavender bloom?

The flowering period of lavender is generally from June to August. Depending on the variety and growing environment, the blooming time will differ slightly. Under normal conditions, it begins blooming in June. Lavender is a perennial small shrub and can generally be used for about 10 years. The varieties are undemanding, easy to cultivate, like sunlight, tolerate heat, tolerate drought, are extremely cold-hardy, tolerate poor soil, and resist salinity and alkalinity. The cultivation site needs sufficient sunlight and good ventilation. Time required from sowing to flowering (or harvest): 18-20 weeks. Lavender is suitable for cultivation in large containers. However, when potted, to prevent excessive moisture, choose a ceramic pot or a smaller plastic pot. It is not suitable to use a large pot unless it has already grown to a considerable size.

When does lavender bloom in Ili, Xinjiang?

The lavender flowering period in Ili, Xinjiang, is around June 20. Lavender in Provence and Hokkaido blooms only one season a year, while the Ili River Valley is the only place in the world where lavender can bloom twice a year. The first season is from the end of May to mid-June, with one harvest at the end of June; the second season is from the end of July to August, with another harvest at the end of September. The Ili River Valley is the most beautiful place in Xinjiang. Every year when the lavender blooms, stretches of land turn into a purple ocean. Blue skies and white clouds set off the purple lavender, forming a beautiful scenery line.

The flower language of lavender

The flower language of lavender represents true love and was the most representative lyric poetry of the Elizabethan era. Therefore, lovers at that time popularized giving lavender to each other to express love. To master the flowering period of lavender is to master the blooming of true love. Thus, it has become a plant loved by many girls!