Lavender.

keith.m.lucas1956

Hi, I'm looking to plant Lavender at the front of my house which, during the summer is in full sun. My existing lavender which has been killed off during the winter had a tenancy to grow towards the sun and overhang the grass and kill it off. Therefore  I'm looking for a lavender that essentially grows upright.
Any suggestions greatly appreciated. 

punkdoc

All plants tend to grow towards the sun, so it might be tricky.

Cambridgerose12

There are some neat forms that are good for edging. You could try 'Hidcote Gem', 'Imperial Gem', and 'Twickel Purple'. At the same time, if you want to stop them outgrowing their welcome, it's essential to cut them firmly back every year as the flowers fade (usually in around early to mid-August). You need to cut back to where there is still some fresh green foliage visible, as they won't grow back from completely old wood. Then feed well with fish blood & bone or similar. Without this, the plants will sprawl outwards and when you want to cut them hard back to protect the grass, they will be killed.

It may also be a problem to replant straight where lavenders have already been, as there is a fungal disease called lavender shab which lingers in the soil and may affect your young plants. If this is likely, then you might be better off choosing a substitute like Santolina, which should be clipped in exactly the same way every year.

keith.m.lucas1956

Thank you, much appreciated
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