If you’re looking for a unique and flavorful addition to your herb garden, consider growing Lavender Mint Julep plant. This fragrant cultivar is a hybrid of two classic herbs, mint, and lavender, and offers a refreshing and aromatic addition to your garden. Lavender Mint Julep is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of ways, from making tea to adding flavor to cocktails.
Lavender Mint Julep is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. It prefers full sun and fertile, well-drained soil but can also tolerate partial shade and less-than-ideal soil conditions.
This plant is also relatively low maintenance, making it a great choice for beginner gardeners. It grows quickly and can be harvested frequently, making it a great choice for those who like to use fresh herbs in their cooking.
Understanding Lavender Mint Julep Plant
Description
The lavender mint julep plant, also known as Mentha x piperita ‘Lavender’, is a perennial herb that is hardy in USDA growing zones 3 to 7. It has delicate purple flowers and red stems, and can grow up to 2 feet tall. The leaves of the plant are green with a silver tint and have a distinct lavender scent.
Growing Conditions
Lavender mint julep plants are relatively easy to grow and care for. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.
The plant can be grown in containers or in the ground, but it is important to keep the roots moist and not allow them to dry out. The plant is also evergreen, meaning it will remain green and lush throughout the year.
Uses
The lavender mint julep plant can be used in a variety of culinary applications, such as teas, cocktails, and desserts. The leaves have a sweet and floral flavor that pairs well with fruit and chocolate. The plant can also be used as a fragrant addition to flower arrangements or potpourri.
Varieties
There are several varieties of lavender mint julep plants available, including Lavandula allardii ‘Meerlo’ and Mentha piperita ‘Lavender’. These plants have similar growing conditions and uses, but may have slight variations in flavor or appearance.
Ideal Growing Conditions
To grow a healthy and thriving Lavender Mint Julep plant, you need to provide it with the ideal growing conditions. Here are some factors you need to consider:
Soil
The Lavender Mint Julep plant thrives in well-drained potting soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it’s important to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.
Sunlight
The Lavender Mint Julep plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow and produce the best flavor. If you live in a hot climate, you can provide some afternoon shade to protect the plant from excessive heat.
USDA Zones
The Lavender Mint Julep plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9. If you live in a colder climate, you can grow it as an annual or in a container that you can move indoors during the winter months.
Heat and Humidity
The Lavender Mint Julep plant can tolerate high heat and humidity levels. However, it’s important to provide adequate water to prevent the soil from drying out during hot and dry spells.
Drought Tolerance
The Lavender Mint Julep plant is drought-tolerant, but it’s important to keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season. You can mulch around the plant to help retain moisture in the soil.
Soil Conditions
To ensure that your Lavender Mint Julep plant grows healthy and strong, you need to provide it with the right soil conditions. Here are some tips:
- Add organic matter to the soil to improve its structure and fertility.
- Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can lead to excessive growth and poor flavor.
- Test the soil regularly to ensure that it has the right pH and nutrient levels.
By providing your Lavender Mint Julep plant with the ideal growing conditions, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of this delicious and aromatic herb.
Planting Instructions
Container or Pot
If you plan to grow your Lavender Mint Julep plant in a container or pot, make sure it has good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches in diameter and 12 inches deep to give the roots enough space to grow.
Planting Depth
When planting your Lavender Mint Julep plant, make sure to dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball. The top of the root ball should be level with the soil surface. Backfill the hole with soil and gently tamp it down to remove any air pockets.
Spacing
If you’re planting multiple Lavender Mint Julep plants, space them at least 18 to 24 inches apart to give them enough room to grow and spread out. Adequate airflow is important to ensure they get enough room to grow. You might also consider growing companion plants in between each plant.
Full Sun
Lavender Mint Julep plants thrive in full sun to partial shade. Make sure to place your plant in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Watering
Lavender Mint Julep plants prefer well-draining soil and don’t like to be waterlogged. Water your plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During hotter summer months you might need water a bit more often. If you are in humid climates you might need to reduce the watering. Always check the soil before giving a good soak.
Fertilizing
You can fertilize your Lavender Mint Julep plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring to fall). Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
How Do you Propagate the Lavender Mint Julep Plant?
You can grow these plants through seeds or by propagating the Lavender Mint Julep plant can be done through stem cuttings. Follow these steps to successfully propagate your Lavender Mint Julep:
- Select the right time: The best time to take stem cuttings is during the active growing season, typically in late spring or early summer. Choose healthy and non-flowering stems for propagation.
- Prepare the cutting: Use sharp and clean pruning shears to take a cutting that is around 4 to 6 inches long. Make the cut just below a leaf node, where a leaf meets the stem. Remove any lower leaves, leaving a few leaves at the top.
- Rooting hormone (optional): While not necessary, you can dip the cut end of the stem into a rooting hormone powder. This can help encourage root development in some cases.
- Plant the cutting: Fill a small pot or container with a well-draining
potting mix . Make a hole in the soil with a pencil or your finger and insert the cutting into the hole, gently pressing the soil around it to secure it in place. - Watering: Give the cutting a thorough watering to settle the soil and ensure it is moist but not waterlogged. Place the container in a location with bright, indirect light.
- Provide humidity: To maintain humidity around the cutting, you can cover the container with a clear plastic bag or use a propagation tray with a clear lid.
- Monitor and care: Keep an eye on the cutting regularly to ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not overly wet. You should start to see root development within a few weeks to a month.
- Transplanting: Once the cutting has developed sufficient roots (usually when it has several inches of new growth), it’s ready to be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the garden.
- Gradual acclimation: If you’re transplanting the rooted cutting outdoors, make sure to acclimate it gradually to the outdoor conditions by exposing it to the outdoor environment for a few hours each day, increasing the time outdoors over a week.
Remember, propagation success can vary, and not all cuttings may root successfully. Taking multiple cuttings will increase your chances of success at growing your baby lavender plants.
Additionally, Lavender Mint Julep plants can also be propagated through division or by collecting and sowing seeds.
How Do You Care For Lavender Mint Plants?
Taking care of your lavender mint julep plant is essential to ensure it thrives during the summer months. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
Water needs: Your lavender mint julep plant needs to be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. Ensure the soil is evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Too much water can cause root rot, so be careful not to overwater.
Fertilize: Fertilize your lovely plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring. This will help promote healthy growth and ensure your plant has enough nutrients to produce an abundance of leaves.
Pruning: Pruning is essential to keep your lavender mint julep plant compact and bushy. Cut back the plant by one-third in early spring, and then again in mid-summer. This will encourage new growth and help prevent the plant from becoming leggy.
Mulch: A layer of mulch around your lavender mint julep plant will help retain moisture in the soil, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as bark chips, in the spring which resembles its native soil.
Cut back: In the fall, cut back your lavender mint julep plant to the ground. This will help prepare the plant for winter and promote healthy growth in the spring. It may look dead
By following these care and maintenance tips, you can ensure your lavender mint julep plant thrives during the summer months and beyond.
Designing with Lavender Mint
Borders and Hedges
Lavender mint is a great choice for borders and hedges because of its compact habit and attractive foliage. Plant lavender mint in a row along a garden border or use it to create a low hedge. Its fragrant leaves and pretty flowers will add color and texture to your garden.
Rock Gardens
Lavender mint is also a great choice for rock gardens. Its upright habit and small size make it a perfect fit for small spaces. Plant lavender mint in between rocks or use it to create a border around your rock garden. Its pretty flowers and fragrant leaves will add interest and beauty to your rock garden.
Mass Planting
Lavender mint is a great choice for mass plantings because of its compact habit and attractive foliage. Plant lavender mint in a large group to create a stunning display of color and texture. Its pretty flowers and fragrant leaves will add interest and beauty to your garden.
Additional Features
The Lavender Mint Julep plant is a great addition to any garden or herb collection. In addition to its sweet flavor, it also has a number of additional features that make it a unique and desirable plant.
One of the most striking features of the Lavender Mint Julep plant is its variegated foliage. The foliage is also highly aromatic, which makes it a great addition to any sensory garden.
In addition to its aromatic foliage, the Lavender Mint Julep plant also produces beautiful purple to light blue blooms. These blooms are not only visually stunning, but they also add a lovely fragrance to your garden or home. You will most often see the flowers in summer months. The blooms are also great for attracting pollinators, such as bees and butterflies.
The Lavender Mint Julep plant has a highly fragrant aroma, which makes it a great addition to any herb garden or indoor herb collection. The scent is also said to have a calming effect, which makes it a great plant to have in your home or office.
The texture of the Lavender Mint Julep plant is also unique. The leaves have a slightly fuzzy texture, which adds a tactile element to your garden or herb collection. This texture also makes the plant more resistant to pests and diseases.
Culinary and Medicinal Uses
Culinary Uses
The Lavender Mint Julep plant has a delicate flavor that is a combination of lavender, mint, and a hint of apple. This unique flavor makes it a popular choice for use in a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, and sauces. The plant can also be used to make a refreshing tea or perfect cocktail that is ideal for hot summer days.
Here are some popular culinary uses for Lavender Mint Julep:
- Use the leaves to flavor salads, soups, and sauces.
- Use the leaves to make a refreshing tea.
- Use the leaves to flavor cocktails such as the classic Mint Julep.
Medicinal Uses
The Lavender Mint Julep plant has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. The plant contains compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and analgesic properties. These properties make it a popular choice for use in a variety of medicinal applications.
Here are some popular medicinal uses for Lavender Mint Julep:
- Use the leaves to make a soothing tea that can help ease anxiety and stress.
- Use the leaves to make a poultice that can help reduce inflammation and swelling.
- Use the leaves to make a salve that can help alleviate pain and discomfort.
The Lavender Mint Julep plant is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of culinary and medicinal applications. Whether you are looking to add flavor to your dishes or treat a variety of ailments, this herb is a great choice for your kitchen or herb garden.
Resistance and Tolerance
When it comes to growing lavender mint julep plants, it’s important to understand their resistance and tolerance to various environmental factors. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Drought Tolerance
Lavender mint julep plants are known for their drought tolerance, making them an excellent choice for gardeners in dry climates. They can survive with little water, but it’s important to keep them well-drained to avoid root rot. When watering, give them a deep soak once a week instead of frequent light watering.
Deer Resistance
If you’re looking for a plant that deer won’t eat, lavender mint julep is a good option. This plant is not a preferred food source for deer, so it’s less likely to be damaged by them. However, it’s important to note that no plant is completely deer-proof, so it’s still a good idea to take precautions if you live in an area with a lot of deer.
Tolerates
Lavender mint julep plants are also known for their ability to tolerate heat and humidity. They can grow in full sun to part shade, but they prefer a location with good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. They also tolerate a wide range of soil types, as long as they are well-drained.
Pollinators and Wildlife
Lavender Mint Julep plants are a great addition to any garden, not only because of their beautiful appearance but also because of the pollinators and wildlife they attract. Here are a few reasons why you should consider planting Lavender Mint Julep in your garden:
- Attracts bees and other pollinators: Lavender Mint Julep plants produce beautiful purple flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. These pollinators play a vital role in our ecosystem by helping plants reproduce and produce fruits and vegetables.
- Provides food for wildlife: Lavender Mint Julep plants also provide a source of food for wildlife such as birds and small mammals. The leaves of the plant are edible and can be used in teas and other drinks.
- Drought tolerant: Lavender Mint Julep plants are drought tolerant, which means they can survive in areas with little water. This makes them an excellent choice for areas with hot and dry climates.
- Deer resistant: Lavender Mint Julep plants are also deer resistant, which means they are less likely to be eaten by deer. This makes them an excellent choice for gardens in areas with high deer populations.
Varieties of Lavender
Lavender is a popular herb that belongs to the mint family. It is known for its calming and soothing properties, and its fragrant flowers make it a popular choice for gardens and aromatherapy. There are many different varieties of lavender, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the most popular varieties of lavender:
English Lavender
English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is one of the most commonly grown varieties of lavender. It is a compact, bushy plant that grows up to 2-3 feet tall and wide. The plant has narrow, gray-green leaves and produces fragrant spikes of flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white. English lavender is hardy in zones 5-9 and is a popular choice for gardens, borders, and containers.
French Lavender
French lavender (Lavandula stoechas) is a larger, more bushy plant than English lavender. It has gray-green leaves and produces fragrant spikes of flowers in shades of purple, pink, and white. French lavender is hardy in zones 8-11 and is often used as a landscaping plant in warmer climates.
Spanish Lavender
Spanish lavender (Lavandula stoechas pedunculata) is a compact, bushy plant that grows up to 2-3 feet tall and wide. It has gray-green leaves and produces fragrant spikes of flowers in shades of purple, pink, and white. Spanish lavender is hardy in zones 7-11 and is often used as a landscaping plant in warmer climates.
Lavandin
Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia) is a hybrid of English and spike lavender. It is a larger, more bushy plant than English lavender and produces fragrant spikes of flowers in shades of blue, purple, and white. Lavandin is hardy in zones 5-9 and is often used for its essential oil.
Other Varieties
There are many other varieties of lavender, including Hidcote, Munstead, Phenomenal, and Grosso. Each variety has its own unique characteristics, such as flower color, fragrance, and growth habit. When choosing a lavender plant, consider the variety that will best suit your needs and growing conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the ideal growing zone for Meerlo Lavender?
A: Meerlo Lavender is a hardy perennial plant that grows well in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 9. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Q: What are some tips for caring for Meerlo Lavender?
A: Meerlo Lavender plants require minimal maintenance. They should be watered deeply but infrequently, and the soil should be allowed to dry out between watering sessions. Prune the plant in the spring to promote healthy growth, and fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer once a year.
Q: Can Meerlo Lavender be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Meerlo Lavender can be propagated from cuttings. Take your lavender cuttings in the spring or summer and dip them in rooting hormone before planting them in a well-draining soil mix.
Q: Does Meerlo Lavender bloom, and if so, what color are the flowers?
A: Yes, Meerlo Lavender produces pale blue flowers in the summer. The flowers are highly fragrant and attract pollinators.
Q: Is lavender mint edible, and if so, how is it commonly used?
A: Yes, lavender mint is edible. It is commonly used to add a floral touch to teas, cocktails, and desserts. It can also be used to flavor savory dishes like roasted meats and vegetables. Lavender cuttings can also be dried and used in foods as well.
Q: Are Meerlo Lavender plants considered perennials, or do they need to be replanted each year?
A: Meerlo Lavender is a perennial plant that can live for several years if properly cared for. It may require replanting after a few years if it becomes too woody or unproductive. Its an easy-to-grow lavender that is ideal for any beginner gardner!
Q: What is lavender mint good for?
A: Lavender mint, a hybrid of lavender and mint, has both the calming, soothing qualities of lavender and the refreshing, invigorating properties of mint. Here are some of its uses and benefits:
- Aromatherapy: Lavender mint’s delightful fragrance combines the relaxing aroma of lavender with the invigorating scent of mint, making it great for aromatherapy to reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being.
- Culinary Uses: Lavender mint can be used as a culinary herb to add a unique and pleasant flavor to dishes. It works well in both sweet and savory recipes and can be used in teas, desserts, salads, and more.
- Medicinal Properties: Like its parent plants, lavender mint may have certain medicinal properties, including potential digestive benefits from the mint and calming effects from the lavender.
Q: What does Lavender mint smell like?
A: Lavender mint has a delightful and refreshing aroma that combines the sweet, floral notes of lavender with the cool, menthol-like scent of mint. The result is a unique and harmonious blend of calming and invigorating aromas. The fragrance of lavender mint is often used in aromatherapy for relaxation and stress relief.
Q: Which is better: rosemary or lavender?
A: The choice between rosemary and lavender depends on your specific needs and preferences. Both herbs have distinct characteristics and uses:
- Rosemary: Rosemary is an aromatic herb with a pine-like fragrance. It is often used as a culinary herb to add flavor to various dishes, especially roasted meats and vegetables. Rosemary is also known for its potential health benefits, including antioxidant properties and memory-enhancing effects.
- Lavender: The fragrant Lavender plant is renowned for its sweet and floral scent, which is widely used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. It is also used as a culinary herb in certain recipes, and the flowers can be dried for potpourri and crafts.
Q: What is a good companion for lavender?
A: Lavender is a versatile and attractive plant that pairs well with several other garden plants in a flower bed. Some excellent companions for lavender include:
- Rosemary: Both lavender and rosemary thrive in similar growing conditions and have complementary scents, making them great companions in a fragrant herb garden.
- Sage: Sage complements lavender’s aromatic qualities and also requires similar well-draining soil and sunlight conditions.
- Marigolds: Marigolds can help deter pests and insects that might bother lavender, making them beneficial companions in a garden.
- Catmint or Nepeta: These plants are part of the mint family and share similar growth habits and attractive flowers, making them good partners for lavender.
Companion planting can offer several benefits, such as promoting pollination, deterring pests, and creating an aesthetically pleasing garden. When choosing companions for lavender, consider the plants’ needs and how they complement each other’s growth and appearance.
