Lavender is a fragrant, resilient plant. While it thrives in lean conditions, natural nourishment supports its health and encourages abundant flowering. Homemade fertilizers offer a sustainable way to meet lavender’s specific needs.
Benefits of Homemade Fertilizers
Homemade fertilizers offer several advantages. They are cost-effective and avoid harsh synthetic chemicals, benefiting the garden ecosystem. Natural fertilizers improve soil structure by adding organic matter, enhancing aeration and water retention. This fosters a healthy soil microbiome, promoting beneficial microorganisms that aid in nutrient cycling and uptake.
Nutritional Needs of Lavender
Lavender is adapted to nutrient-poor soils and does not require extensive fertilization. Over-fertilization, especially with high-nitrogen formulas, can lead to excessive leafy growth at the expense of flowers. It also reduces winter hardiness and increases susceptibility to pests and diseases. Lavender benefits most from moderate phosphorus and potassium, with less nitrogen.
Phosphorus is essential for strong root development and promotes robust flower and seed production. Potassium supports overall plant vigor, helping lavender withstand environmental stresses and improve disease resistance. It also enhances bloom color and fragrance. The ideal soil pH for lavender ranges from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, between 6.5 and 7.5. Maintaining this pH ensures nutrient absorption.
Homemade Fertilizer Options and Recipes
Common household items can be repurposed into effective homemade fertilizers for lavender.
Compost and Compost Tea
Finished compost is a balanced source of nutrients and organic matter, improving microbial activity. To create a non-aerated compost tea, combine 1 1/2 cups of finished compost with 1 gallon of non-chlorinated water. Steep for 7 to 10 days, stirring daily. Strain the solid material, then dilute the tea to a 1:4 or 1:10 ratio for soil application, or 1:5 for a foliar spray.
Aged Manure
Well-rotted manure introduces a broad spectrum of nutrients and beneficial microbes to the soil. It improves soil fertility and texture, providing slow-release nourishment. Ensure manure is thoroughly aged to prevent burning roots and reduce pathogens.
Wood Ash
Wood ash, from burning unpainted, untreated wood, contains potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. It is alkaline and helps raise soil pH. Apply wood ash sparingly around lavender plants, as excessive amounts can drastically increase soil alkalinity.
Eggshells
Crushed eggshells are an excellent source of calcium, supporting cell wall development and plant structure. Calcium also helps maintain soil pH. Rinse and dry eggshells thoroughly, then crush them into a fine powder for quicker breakdown and nutrient release.
Banana Peels
Banana peels are rich in potassium, crucial for flowering and plant health. They also contain small amounts of phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium. Chop peels into small pieces and bury them around the lavender plant. Alternatively, make “banana peel tea” by soaking 2-3 peels in water for a few days. Strain and dilute the liquid before applying as a liquid feed.
Applying Homemade Fertilizers
Proper application of homemade fertilizers is essential for lavender to thrive. Lavender typically benefits from fertilization once a year, ideally in early spring as new growth begins. For potted lavender, a second, more dilute application in early summer might replenish nutrients. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall, as this promotes tender new growth vulnerable to winter damage.
For solid homemade fertilizers like compost or aged manure, a light top dressing around the plant’s base is usually sufficient. For liquid feeds, such as compost tea or banana peel tea, pour the diluted solution around the root zone. Remember lavender prefers leaner soil, so apply fertilizer sparingly to prevent over-fertilization. Signs of nutrient imbalance or deficiency include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or reduced flower production. Conducting a soil test periodically provides valuable insights into your soil’s nutrient levels and pH, guiding fertilization efforts.