Everything You Need to Know About Growing Lavender Cotton

Lavender cotton is a versatile and easy-to-grow subshrub that can add interest to your garden with its silvery, gray-green foliage and bright yellow flowers. If you’re looking to grow lavender cotton like a pro, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to successfully cultivate this lovely plant. From care tips to propagation methods, we’ve got you covered.

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Lavender Cotton 101

Lavender cotton, also known as Santolina, is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soil conditions. Its three-dimensional, highly aromatic leaves give it a unique appearance, with bright yellow button flowers adding a splash of color in the summer. While lavender cotton is short-lived, typically lasting four to five years, it can be a great addition to beds, borders, and rock gardens.

Lavender Cotton Care

Taking care of lavender cotton is simple once you know the basics. Here are some key care tips to keep your plant healthy and thriving:

Light: Plant lavender cotton in full sun, providing it with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While it can tolerate some shade, full sun will promote optimal growth and flowering.
Soil: Lavender cotton prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. Avoid rich soils that hold water, as this can lead to rot and plant loss.
Water: Water newly planted lavender cotton regularly for the first year, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Once established, it only needs irrigation during hot, dry periods.
Temperature and Humidity: Lavender cotton can withstand a wide range of temperatures, from 115°F to 0°F. It prefers a dry climate with low humidity and good air circulation.
Fertilizer: Avoid using fertilizer on lavender cotton, as it does not respond well to supplemental nutrients.

Types of Lavender Cotton

There are several species of Santolina that are commonly referred to as Lavender Cotton, with leaf type being the distinguishing characteristic. Some popular cultivars include:

Santolina chamaecyparissus ‘Weston’
Santolina chamaecyparissus ‘Edward Bowles’
Santolina chamaecyparissus ‘Lemon Queen’
Santolina chamaecyparissus ‘Sulphurea’

Pruning

Regular pruning is essential for maintaining the appearance of your lavender cotton. Deadheading spent flowers and annual pruning can help extend the life of the plant and promote healthy growth. Aim to maintain an evenly rounded shape by trimming or shearing in autumn and early spring.

Propagation Methods

If you’re interested in expanding your lavender cotton collection, there are a few methods you can use to propagate new plants:

Layering: Layering is a simple method that can result in new plants in as little as six to eight weeks. This is best done during the active growth period.
Stem Cuttings: You can also propagate lavender cotton using semi-ripe stem cuttings taken in summer. Follow the steps outlined in the original article for best results.

Growing Lavender Cotton from Seed

Seeds are usually sown indoors six to eight weeks before the final frost, with a 30-day stratification period required before planting. This method can be a rewarding way to grow new lavender cotton plants from scratch.

Potting and Repotting

Lavender cotton is best suited for outdoor conditions, where it can thrive in dry, nutrient-poor soil. When potting or repotting, ensure that the container has good drainage holes and use a sandy garden soil or container mix without added fertilizer.

Common Pests and Plant Diseases

Lavender cotton is a sturdy plant that is not prone to many pests or diseases. Its strong scent repels rabbits and deer, while proper care can help prevent fungal infections such as root rot and pythium wilt.

How to Get Lavender Cotton to Bloom

Lavender cotton blooms reliably throughout the summer without much extra effort. However, some growers prefer to remove buds to maintain it as a foliage plant. The flowers are strongly scented and can be used in potpourri, attracting bees, moths, and butterflies to your garden.

Common Problems to Watch Out For

While lavender cotton is relatively low-maintenance, there are a few common issues to be aware of:

Fungal Infections: Overwatering and poor soil drainage can lead to fungal infections such as crown rot and root rot. Prevent these issues by ensuring well-drained soil and allowing it to dry out between waterings.
Bare Center: Over time, lavender cotton plants may develop a bare center due to spreading growth. Annual pruning can help maintain the plant’s shape, but eventually, you may need to plan for replacements.

In conclusion, growing lavender cotton can be a rewarding experience for any gardener. By following the care tips, propagation methods, and common issues outlined in this article, you’ll be well-equipped to cultivate healthy and vibrant lavender cotton plants in your garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner looking to add a unique touch to your landscape, lavender cotton is a versatile and beautiful option to consider. Happy gardening!