Goodwin Creek Lavender is a popular hybrid known for its aromatic foliage and vibrant blooms, making it a favored choice for many gardens. Cultivating this lavender successfully requires understanding its specific needs and providing appropriate environmental conditions and consistent care.
Understanding Goodwin Creek Lavender
Goodwin Creek Lavender (Lavandula x ginginsii) is a hybrid resulting from a cross between Lavandula dentata and Lavandula lanata, discovered in Oregon in 1989. The plant typically grows 2 to 4 feet tall and spreads similarly, forming a dense, rounded shrub. Its silvery-gray, finely toothed foliage provides year-round visual interest and emits a calming fragrance. Deep purple-blue flowers appear on long, slender spikes, often blooming from late spring through fall, and in milder climates, can continue into winter. This lavender is hardy in USDA Zones 6 to 10, demonstrating tolerance for heat and some drought once established.
Key Environmental Needs
Goodwin Creek Lavender thrives when its fundamental environmental requirements are met, particularly concerning light, soil, and water.
Light
This lavender variety requires full sun exposure, ideally receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and reduced flowering. While it can tolerate some partial shade in hotter climates, consistent full sun is preferred for developing its aromatic oils and vibrant blooms.
Soil
Good drainage is important for Goodwin Creek Lavender, as it is susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions. The plant prefers lean, loose, fast-draining soil that is slightly alkaline to neutral, with an ideal pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. If your garden soil is heavy clay, amend it with organic matter like compost, pea gravel, or perlite to improve drainage and aeration. Avoid using wood or leaf mulches directly around the plant’s crown, as these can retain excessive moisture and contribute to rot.
Watering
Watering practices are also important for this lavender. Newly planted Goodwin Creek Lavender requires regular watering to establish its root system, typically a deep watering once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between applications. Once established, the plant becomes drought-tolerant and requires less frequent watering, generally every two to three weeks, or only when the soil becomes very dry. Overwatering is a common issue that can cause root rot, so allow the soil to dry out moderately between waterings. Using a drip system can help deliver water directly to the base of the plant, avoiding overhead spray.
Pruning and Ongoing Maintenance
Consistent pruning and thoughtful maintenance practices contribute to the vigor and appearance of Goodwin Creek Lavender. These actions help maintain its shape, promote new growth, and encourage abundant flowering.
Pruning
Regular pruning is important for maintaining the plant’s shrub-like appearance and promoting additional growth and blooms. Prune a few weeks after the first blooms appear to encourage continuous flowering. For shaping and promoting new shoots, selectively pinch new growth.
Cut back spent flower spikes at their base after they fade. A more significant shaping or cutting back of the whole plant can be done after all flowers have faded to maintain a compact, dense form. Avoid shearing the plant like a hedge, as this can hinder its natural growth habit.
Fertilization
Goodwin Creek Lavender has low nutrient requirements; over-fertilizing can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Supplemental feeding is not necessary, as lavender thrives in less fertile soil. If fertilization is desired, a light application of a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer can be applied sparingly in the spring. Compost or compost tea can also be used as a mild amendment.
Pests and Diseases
Goodwin Creek Lavender is resistant to many common pests and diseases, due in part to its aromatic oils. However, issues can arise, particularly in humid conditions. Root rot is the most common problem, often caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. Ensuring good air circulation and proper drainage helps prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew and root rot. Pests such as spider mites and aphids may appear, which can be managed with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Winter Protection and Longevity
Protecting Goodwin Creek Lavender during colder months and ensuring its long-term health involves specific considerations, especially for plants in borderline hardiness zones. These measures help the lavender withstand environmental stresses and continue to thrive.
Winter Protection
For Goodwin Creek Lavender, hardy in USDA Zones 6 to 10, winter protection is important in the colder parts of its range, particularly in Zone 6. In these areas, container-grown plants can be moved indoors before the first frost. For plants in the ground, ensuring excellent drainage through winter is important, as wet, cold soil can lead to root rot. While mulching can protect roots, avoid mulching too close to the plant’s crown, as this can trap moisture. Gravel mulch can be beneficial as it improves drainage and helps keep the crown dry.
Longevity
Goodwin Creek Lavender can live up to 25 years with proper care, influenced by initial site selection and consistent maintenance. Planting in a location that provides full sun and well-drained soil from the beginning sets the plant up for success. Avoiding overwatering, especially once established, and ensuring good air circulation around the plants contribute to their health and extended lifespan. Regular, appropriate pruning also helps prevent the plant from becoming woody and promotes sustained vigor.