Watering lavender every day is not necessary and can actually be detrimental to the plant’s health. Lavender is a drought-tolerant plant, meaning it is adapted to survive in dry conditions. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues that can harm the plant.
When lavender is first planted, it is important to water it regularly during its first summer to help it establish a strong root system. This typically means watering once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. It’s important to water deeply, allowing the water to reach the roots, rather than just moistening the surface.
Once lavender is well established, typically after the first year or so, it becomes much more drought tolerant and rarely needs watering when grown in the ground. Lavender has adapted to survive in Mediterranean climates, where rainfall is often limited, so it can withstand dry periods without much issue.
However, it’s important to note that severe drought conditions can still stress lavender plants, especially if they are newly planted or in containers. In these situations, it may be necessary to provide some supplemental watering to help the plant survive.
One way to determine if your lavender needs watering is to check the soil moisture level. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil near the base of the plant. If it feels dry at that depth, it’s a good indication that the plant could use some water. However, if the soil still feels moist, it’s best to hold off on watering and check again in a few days.
It’s also important to consider the type of soil your lavender is planted in. Well-draining soil is crucial for lavender, as it does not like to sit in wet or waterlogged conditions. If your soil has poor drainage, it may be necessary to adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
While lavender does require regular watering during its first summer to establish a strong root system, once it is well established, it is generally drought tolerant and does not need frequent watering. It’s important to monitor soil moisture levels and water only when necessary, especially during periods of severe drought.