Best Time to Prune Lavender for Better Blooms

Lavender enthusiasts in the UK are advised to pay close attention to their plants, which flourish in sunny, well-drained areas but struggle in shade and cold conditions. The Royal Horticultural Society has cautioned that without proper maintenance, lavender can become "woody" and "ungainly" during the summer, transforming vibrant green and lilac plants into unsightly brown and dry specimens. Gardening expert Monty Don emphasizes the importance of annual pruning to maintain the health and appearance of lavender. He recommends pruning as soon as the flowers begin to fade, which can occur from mid-summer to late August, depending on the lavender variety. Don stresses the need to avoid waiting for seed heads to form or flowers to brown, as this can hinder regrowth before winter. For optimal results, Monty suggests cutting back aggressively while ensuring some new shoots remain on each stem, as lavenders typically do not regenerate from old wood. These new shoots are crucial for providing winter protection and forming the foundation for next year's blooms. For gardeners with older, leggy lavenders, he advises replacing them to maintain a fresh garden aesthetic. If pruning is missed after the summer bloom, Monty recommends postponing until spring, especially for the more delicate French, Spanish, and Italian varieties. Herb expert Judith Hann notes that it is generally advisable to replace lavender plants every three to five years to prevent legginess and ensure a thriving garden.