Lavender (Lavandula spp.) is a woody perennial plant that thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. Mature lavender plants often develop a dense, woody base with sprawling roots. Unlike many herbaceous perennials, lavender does not naturally divide easily, and improper division can harm the plant. However, repotting or transplanting mature lavender can rejuvenate growth if done correctly.
The ideal time to divide or repot lavender is in early spring, just as new growth begins. This allows the plant to recover during the active growing season. Avoid dividing in late fall or winter, as cold temperatures and damp conditions can stress the plant and increase the risk of root rot.
Before dividing, water the lavender plant thoroughly 24 hours in advance to reduce transplant shock. Gather clean, sharp tools (e.g., pruning shears, a spade, or a knife) and prepare new pots or planting sites with well-draining soil mixed with sand or gravel to mimic lavender's preferred conditions.
Lavender is not typically divided like clump-forming perennials. Instead, follow these steps:
Step 1: Carefully dig around the plant, keeping a wide berth to avoid damaging the roots. Lift the entire plant from the ground or pot.
Step 2: Examine the root system. If the plant has multiple woody stems with separate root sections, gently tease them apart with your hands or a sterilized knife. Avoid forcing divisions, as lavender's woody stems are brittle.
Step 3: Trim any dead or damaged roots and prune back the top growth by one-third to reduce stress on the plant.
For each division, select a pot slightly larger than the root ball. Fill the pot with a gritty, well-draining soil mix. Place the division in the center, ensuring the root crown sits at the same depth as before. Backfill with soil, firm gently, and water lightly to settle the roots.
Place the repotted lavender in a sheltered, sunny location. Avoid overwatering—allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Monitor for signs of stress, such as wilting or yellowing leaves, and protect the plant from extreme weather for the first few weeks.
If division proves too risky for a mature lavender plant, consider propagating from stem cuttings instead. Take 3-4 inch semi-hardwood cuttings in spring or early summer, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, and plant in a sandy mix. This method is less stressful for the parent plant and yields new, healthy clones.
Avoid dividing lavender during hot or dry periods, as the plant is more susceptible to shock. Do not overwater after repotting, as lavender is drought-tolerant and prone to root rot in soggy soil. Refrain from fertilizing immediately after repotting, as this can burn tender roots.
Once established, prune lavender annually to prevent woody growth and encourage bushiness. Repot every 2-3 years if grown in containers to refresh the soil and prevent root binding. Ensure the plant receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily for optimal health.
