Lavender is a beloved herb, but it has specific needs, particularly when grown in a container. Repotting moves the plant from its current pot to a slightly larger one to accommodate its expanding root system. Since lavender is naturally adapted to the lean, dry conditions of the Mediterranean, proper repotting is crucial for its long-term health and ability to flourish. This task must be handled with care to prevent undue stress and ensure the plant has the space and drainage required for continued robust growth.
Identifying the Need and Timing
Several signs indicate that a lavender plant has outgrown its current container and needs repotting. If roots are emerging from the drainage holes, or if the root ball appears densely matted and circling when you slide the plant out, it is root-bound. Another sign is when water immediately rushes through the pot without soaking the soil, suggesting the root mass is too dense to absorb moisture. Furthermore, stunted growth or a decrease in flowering vigor can signal that the roots are restricted and unable to access sufficient nutrients.
The timing of the repotting process is important for minimizing stress on the plant. The ideal window is in early spring, just before the plant begins its active period of new growth. Repotting at this time allows the plant to establish itself in the new substrate during the growing season. If spring repotting is missed, the second-best time is immediately following the main summer bloom period. Avoid repotting while the plant is actively flowering, as this diverts energy and causes unnecessary strain.
Gathering Essential Supplies
The success of the repotting process depends on using the correct materials, especially the growing medium. Lavender requires a highly porous substrate that drains water swiftly, mimicking its native arid environment. Standard commercial potting mixes often retain too much moisture, so a specialized mix is necessary. This mix is typically a half-and-half blend of potting soil and coarse amendments like sand, perlite, or pumice. This ensures the roots receive necessary air circulation and prevents the water retention that leads to root rot.
A slightly alkaline pH is preferred for lavender, so incorporating a small amount of lime can help raise the pH if using an acidic, peat-based soil. The new container should only be one size larger than the current one, ideally increasing the diameter by just 1 to 2 inches. Choosing a pot that is too large will cause the soil to stay wet for too long, a condition lavender cannot tolerate. The container must also feature multiple, large drainage holes to ensure excess water can escape.
The Step-by-Step Repotting Process
Before beginning, water the lavender lightly a day or two prior to the move; this helps the root ball hold together during removal. To start, gently remove the plant from its old pot by turning the container on its side, supporting the base, and tapping the edges to loosen the root ball. Once free, inspect the roots for damage or dense circling.
If the roots are tightly coiled, carefully use your fingers or a small trowel to loosen and untangle the outer layer of the root ball. This encourages the roots to grow outward into the new soil. Avoid aggressive root pruning or excessive disturbance, as lavender’s woody root system is sensitive to shock. Next, place a layer of the prepared soil mix into the new container, positioning the plant so the top of the root ball sits at the same level as it did in the old pot.
Planting the lavender too deep can lead to crown rot, so the base of the stems must remain exposed at the soil line. Fill the area around the root ball with the remaining soil mix, ensuring the new soil integrates fully without leaving air pockets. Gently tap the pot on the ground to settle the soil. Resist the urge to pack the mix down tightly, as this compromises air flow and drainage.
Post-Repotting Care for Successful Recovery
Immediate care after repotting is essential to help the plant recover and minimize transplant shock. Water the lavender thoroughly immediately after placing it in the new container, soaking the soil until water drains freely from the bottom holes. This initial deep watering settles the new soil and provides hydration to the roots. After this first watering, intentional restraint is necessary, as overwatering is the most common cause of post-repotting failure in lavender.
Allow the top few inches of the soil to dry out completely before watering again; this encourages the roots to grow outward in search of moisture. For the first several days, place the freshly repotted lavender in a location that receives bright light but is shielded from the most intense afternoon sun. This slight shade reduces the plant’s water demand and allows damaged fine roots time to recover without the stress of high transpiration. Monitor the plant for signs of recovery, such as firming leaves, and only resume a regular watering schedule once new growth is observed.