The aromatic potency and health of a lavender plant depend heavily on when its flowering spikes are removed. Common varieties, such as Lavandula angustifolia (English lavender) and Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia), produce their maximum concentration of volatile oils at a specific point in their bloom cycle. Correct timing is the most important factor for maximizing scent, preserving vibrant color, and encouraging vigorous regrowth for a potential second flowering.
Visual Indicators of Peak Readiness
The ideal time to harvest a lavender spike is when the flowering portion is partially open, but not fully bloomed. Growers refer to a “sweet spot” that occurs when roughly the bottom third to half of the individual flower buds on the spike have opened. At this stage, the upper portion of the spike still consists of tight, closed buds that are plump with color and fragrance. Harvesting at this point ensures the highest concentration of essential oils is captured before they begin to dissipate through evaporation.
Harvesting early guarantees the best color retention for the finished product. If the entire spike is allowed to open, the flowers will shed petals easily and the color will fade significantly during drying. Waiting too long diminishes the oil content, resulting in a less fragrant and less visually appealing harvest.
Adjusting Harvest Timing Based on Intended Use
The precise moment of harvest shifts based on whether the lavender is intended for aromatic oil extraction or for dried bundles and culinary use.
Oil Extraction
For those seeking the highest yield of essential oil, wait until a slight majority of the flowers have opened, or even until the blooms are nearly full. The accumulation of oil often continues to increase past the point of peak color retention. Some professionals suggest waiting until the lowest flowers have begun to wither, indicating the oil content has reached its maximum concentration.
Dried Bundles and Culinary Use
For dried bundles, sachets, or culinary applications, the harvest must be earlier to ensure the flower heads remain intact and hold their shape. Cut the stems when only 25% to 50% of the individual flowers are open; this prevents buds from dropping off the stem during drying. This earlier timing prioritizes the vibrant aesthetic and physical integrity of the dried spike over maximum oil accumulation.
Proper Cutting Technique and Time of Day
The correct time of day for harvesting focuses on maximizing the concentration of volatile oils. The best window is mid-morning, after the morning dew has completely dried from the foliage and flowers. Harvesting wet lavender can lead to mold and mildew during the bundling and drying phase. By cutting before the strongest heat of the day, typically before 10 a.m., the essential oils are at their highest concentration within the buds, as intense heat causes them to evaporate.
Use sharp shears or clippers to ensure a clean snip that promotes faster healing for the plant. Cut the stems as long as possible, but always above the woody portion of the plant to avoid damage that stunts new growth. Cutting just above a set of green leaves or new shoots encourages healthy regrowth and potentially a second flush of blooms. To ensure the plant’s long-term health, leave a sufficient amount of green foliage, removing no more than two-thirds of the plant’s height.