Can lavender grow in humid climates?
Written by
Kiana Okafor
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Cultivating lavender in humid climates introduces particular challenges, but it can be made possible with careful adaptations. The high moisture levels create a fertile ground for fungal diseases, to which Mediterranean natives are adapted. I had success in Florida's humidity with the same approaches. Thoughtful variety selection and cultural practices tailored to the environment are highly effective in addressing limitations.
Soil and Site Preparation
- Raised beds elevate roots above soggy conditions
- Sandy soil amendments at 50% volume ensure drainage
- Sloped planting areas direct water runoff away
- Gravel mulch prevents moisture retention at crowns
Cultural Practices
- Drip irrigation targets roots without wetting foliage
- Morning watering allows daytime drying of plants
- Strategic spacing allows 24+ inches between plants
- Annual pruning opens centers for better airflow
The composition of your soil ultimately determines survival in humid zones. Replace that heavy clay with an even mixture of sand and compost. My beds have a mixture of 60% coarse sand and 40% topsoil. This type of mix allows for swift drainage precision that mimics Mediterranean sensibility. To test your drainage, dig a hole a foot deep and fill it with water. It should drain in less than 2 hours.
Air movement is key to preventing disease. In more humid regions, spacing needs to be wider. I recommend planting Phenomenal lavender three feet apart in Florida. Plants are also pruned into open vase forms. This allows the humidity to escape instead of sitting on the foliage overnight.
The watering method will determine success or failure. Set up drip irrigation six inches from the base of each plant. Only water when the soil is dry to a depth of two inches. I lost plants using sprinklers before switching to a new system. Morning watering provides leaf-drying time before nighttime.
Varieties that resist disease can tolerate unavoidable humidity. Phenomenal lavender survives Southern U.S. summers, and its silver foliage provides natural moisture resistance. I stay away from Spanish varieties, as they die back more quickly. Be sure to ask local nurseries about cultivars they have adapted for your region.
Preventing fungal diseases requires a proactive strategy. Protect your plants before anticipated rain by applying organic fungicides, such as copper spray. Remove the lower leaves that touch the soil immediately, as they can retain rainwater. I am having success with the savings stages and high humidity conditions using these methods with my plants.
Read the full article: How to Grow Lavender From Seed Successfully
