The History of Lavendar

The history of lavender goes back almost to the beginning of Man. In ancient times, the Egyptians, Phoenicians, and Arabs used lavender for mummification and perfume. Romans used lavender oils for bathing, cooling and scenting the air. Christians believed that a cross made of lavender and hung over the door would protect them from evil.

There is reference to lavender in the Bible under the name used at the time - spikenard. The plant is said to have been taken from the Garden of Eden by Adam and Eve, (but at that time it had no scent). However, it must have developed its fragrance spontaneously as, according to legend, Mary laid the clothing of the baby Jesus on a bush to dry and the bush bestowed its distinctive scent upon His clothes.

The Romans were responsible for the spread of lavender through much of Europe, taking it everywhere they went so as to have plenty available for their soaps and oils. Most lavenders originate from Mediterranean countries.

Up until World War 1, lavender was used to disinfect wounds and has always been used to keep the sick room fresh. Lavender sachets were often placed in drawers to keep moths at bay, as well as to scent the underwear of English ladies. In the Middle Ages, English nobility not only thought that lavender was an aphrodisiac, but also, that lavender water applied to the forehead would keep the wearer chaste.

Uses of Lavendar Today

Today, most lavender is used in the perfume industry and it has long been a key ingredient in the cosmetics industry. The highest quality oil comes from English lavender Lavendula angustifolia. With modern breeding techniques, there are many different coloured lavenders - from blue to mauve, purple, white, pink and green.

Growing Lavendar

Stoechas types flower from early spring through to late autumn and sporadically through winter in warmer climates. Stoechas types have a compact growing habit making them ideal for containers and patio pots and tubs. Most lavenders do not enjoy humid conditions and do not grow well in areas with high rainfall. Stoechas types will stand up to humid conditions better than English lavenders. Protect stoechas lavenders from frost. Once established they will withstand mild frost, but in areas experiencing severe frost, plant them in a sheltered position or in pots.

Lavenders planted in the garden generally do not require fertiliser. An application of Osmocote or general garden fertiliser in spring will help plants establish quickly and enhance flowering. Pruning is essential to keep plants bushy and prevent them from becoming woody and bare. It also encourages flowering. English lavenders are best trimmed after flowering has finished in summer so that new growth has time to harden off before winter. Trim to shape, removing old flower heads. Some varieties do not re-grow in a uniform shape and so more severe trimming is required. Stoechas types flower in early spring and in warmer climates there could be two flushes. Trim back the first flush in summer. In frost prone areas leave trimming the second flush until late winter/early spring so that new growth is not frosted in winter. In warmer regions trim back in autumn.

If growing lavenders in patio pots and tubs, use a quality potting mix that contains a controlled release fertiliser. Keep plants well watered, in summer it could be as frequent as once a day. In winter keep watering to a minimum. Feed container grown plants with a controlled release fertiliser such as Osmocote. Plants will benefit from the occasional liquid feed with a soluble fertiliser such as Phostrogen or Thrive Flower and Fruit.