STARTING LAVENDER FROM SEED

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Growing lavender from seed requires patience… that will be rewarded!
GERMINATE
Start seeds indoors, early in spring or late in fall.  
Prepare shallow seed trays with a light soil & vermiculite mix.  
Surface sow and barely cover the seed. 
Keep soil evenly moist - not wet.  Water from below or gently mist from above.  Do not cover tray.
Maintain minimum temperature 10 C, or use bottom heat until germination.
Provide a sunny location or use grow lights.
Seeds can take 1-3 months to germinate. 

GROW
Seedlings can be potted up once they have several leaves.
Plant out when seedling reaches 10 cm height.  
Choose areas of full sun exposure and well draining soil.
Correct watering is important to encourage growth of deep roots & to develop drought tolerance.  Water thoroughly, but allow soil to dry between watering.
Gradually increase time between watering as plant becomes established.
In year two, plant growth rate will increase and annual blooming will start!

CARE
Lavender is a relatively low maintenance plant, but annual pruning is important to extend its' life and keep the ideal rounded shape.  Pruning is best done after flowering is complete - typically late summer or early fall.  Look for the new small shoots developing at the base of this seasons new growth.  It is very important not to trim these off as these shoots will provide the foliage and flower stems for next season.  Prune off all of this seasons growth above these shoots.  You can also take this opportunity to restore a semi-globe shape for the plant, and also trim or remove any branches growing too close to the ground.