Achieving superior blooms: Is the 8-8-8 lavender pruning method the hidden key?
August is a busy month in the garden, and one of the jobs to do is the 8-8-8 lavender pruning technique. This method, recommended starting from the third year after planting, can help maintain the health and productivity of your lavender plants.
The 8-8-8 rule means that on the 8th August, the lavender plant should be cut back by about eight inches. This practice can stop the plant from becoming too leggy or woody, encouraging it to grow bushier instead. The result is a neatly clipped shrub that will remain bushy and productive, with lots of flowers next year.
However, it's important to note that the 8-8-8 lavender pruning technique is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Pruning should be done when the lavender has actually reached the end of its blooming period. For English lavenders, this is typically in late August-September. French and Spanish lavenders may require a more delicate treatment, and pruning them on the 8th August is not recommended.
To carry out the 8-8-8 lavender pruning technique, you'll need a tool that can cut up to 3/4 inch diameter branches, a pop-up garden bin, and a good pair of gloves. Cutting back the lavender plant now can promote new growth and give this growth plenty of time to establish before the plant enters dormancy in winter.
The 8-8-8 technique encourages the plant to grow fresh, green shoots that will give better blooms next year. When applied to mature specimens, it can help the plant to continue growing strong and healthy. However, it's not advisable to use this technique on younger lavender plants as they do not have enough new growth to cut back.
Holly Reaney, a content editor for our platform with a passion for traditional interiors and gardening, emphasises the importance of taking care when pruning any lavender. Cutting into the old, woody parts of a lavender plant is not advisable as lavender will not grow back from those.
In conclusion, the 8-8-8 lavender pruning technique is a useful method for maintaining the health and productivity of your lavender plants. However, it's important to remember that every plant is unique, and a pinch of gardening knowledge and common sense should be applied when pruning.
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