Transplanting Lavender: Tips for Successful Plant Relocation

This fall marks exactly three years since we planted our first round of lavender, and it’s finally time to split and transplant! Spring would have been an ideal time, but that didn’t work out, so here we are, working on splitting and transplanting countless perennials at the end of the harvest season. I couldn’t be happier.

Can splitting and transplanting harm my plants?

You can propagate lavender and transplant it successfully by following a few key tips. In our article below, we will share the best practices for a successful transplant, along with variety-specific information and troubleshooting tips to ensure you have the confidence to split and transplant your lavender without worrying about losing or harming your plants.

Optimal Timing for Lavender Transplantation

Choosing the right timing for transplanting lavender is crucial. The best times to transplant lavender are in spring (typically in April or May) or early fall (around September). These periods are ideal because the weather is mild, and the plants experience less stress during transplantation.

• Spring Transplanting: Allows roots to establish before the summer heat, giving the plant a better chance to adjust to its new location.
• Fall Transplanting: Takes advantage of warm soil from summer, encouraging strong root growth, while cooler air temperatures reduce stress from pests and diseases.

Key Considerations:

• Plant Maturity: Wait until your lavender has grown for at least 1–2 years with a well-established root system.
• Weather Conditions: Avoid extreme heat, cold, or frost; opt for a mild day without heavy sun exposure.
• Soil Moisture: The soil should be slightly moist but well-draining to prevent root rot.

Step-by-Step Guide to Transplanting Lavender

1. Choose the Right Time: Transplant in spring or early fall when the weather is mild. Avoid extreme temperatures to minimize plant stress.
2. Prepare the New Location: Select a spot with at least six hours of sunlight daily. Amend heavy clay or poorly draining soil with sand or organic matter to enhance drainage.
3. Dig Up the Lavender: Use a pitchfork and shovel to dig around the base, creating a wide circle. Gently lift the plant, preserving as much of the root system as possible.
4. Prepare the Transplant Hole: Create a hole slightly larger than the root ball. Loosen compacted soil and mix in compost or well-rotted manure for added nutrients.
5. Transplant and Water: Place the lavender in the hole at the same depth as its previous location. Fill around the roots with soil, firming it gently, and water immediately to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.
6. Mulch and Maintain: Apply organic mulch around the plant, avoiding the crown. This helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and protect roots from temperature extremes. Water regularly until the plant is established, being cautious not to overwater.

Tips for Successfully Transplanting Lavender

There are a few key tips to keep in mind:

• Timing: The best time to transplant lavender is early spring or fall when the weather is mild and the plant has less stress.
• Preparation: Before transplanting, prepare the new location by loosening the soil and adding organic matter if needed.
• Digging: Carefully dig around the lavender plant, preserving as much of the root ball as possible. The more roots you dig up, the more capable your lavender will be of surviving transplant shock.
• Spacing: If transplanting multiple lavender plants, ensure they are spaced at least 2-3 feet apart to promote air circulation and prevent overcrowding, which can lead to disease.
• Monitor: After transplanting, keep an eye on the plant for signs of stress, such as wilting or yellowing leaves. Adjust watering and care as needed until the plant establishes itself in its new location.
• Patience: Give the plant time to adjust to its new environment. It may take a few weeks for the lavender to show new growth, so be patient during this transition period.

Signs It’s Time to Split and Transplant Lavender

Knowing when to split and transplant lavender is crucial for maintaining its health and vigor. Here are some key indicators to help you determine the right time:

• Overcrowding: If the plant appears crowded or has become leggy, with fewer blooms, it may be time to split and transplant. Lavender should ideally have space to grow; if it looks cramped, it’s a good sign that it needs to be divided.
• Declining Health: If the lavender plant shows signs of decline, such as reduced flowering, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth, splitting and transplanting can rejuvenate the plant by allowing it fresh soil and room to grow.
• Root Bound: Check if the plant’s roots are growing out of the drainage holes or if the roots are circling tightly around the root ball in the ground. A root-bound lavender will benefit from being divided and given more space.
• Age: Lavender plants generally last about 5 to 7 years. If your plant is reaching this age, it may be beneficial to split it to promote new growth and longevity.

Variety-Specific Transplanting Information

Different lavender varieties have slightly different needs due to their tolerance for climate and soil conditions. Here’s what you need to know about transplanting the top three lavender varieties:

English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) Transplant Needs:

• English lavender is more cold-hardy than other varieties, making it easier to transplant in cooler climates.
• It prefers well-draining, alkaline soils with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5.
• Ensure the soil is not waterlogged, especially in colder zones where freezing temperatures can damage roots.
• When transplanting in cooler zones (zone 5 or 6), it’s best to do so in spring to allow the plant ample time to establish before winter.
• Water sparingly after transplanting, as this variety is prone to root rot in overly wet conditions.

French Lavender (Lavandula dentata) Transplant Needs:

• French lavender is more sensitive to cold and should be transplanted in warmer climates, ideally zones 8–11.
• It thrives in slightly more acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
• Make sure the new location has plenty of sun and that the soil is loose and sandy for better drainage.
• Avoid transplanting this variety in cooler seasons, as it doesn’t tolerate frost well. Late spring is ideal.
• Like other varieties, French lavender should not be overwatered, especially after transplanting.

Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas) Transplant Needs:

• Spanish lavender does well in hot, dry climates (zones 7–9) and prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.4–7.3).
• This variety requires very well-drained soil, especially during the rainy season or when transplanting in spring.
• Spanish lavender is less tolerant of wet feet, so ensure the transplant site is on higher ground or has excellent drainage.
• Transplanting is best done in late spring when the risk of frost has passed.
• Spanish lavender is drought-tolerant but still needs some water after transplanting—just ensure the soil doesn’t stay soggy.

General Tips for All Lavender Varieties:

• All lavender varieties should be planted in full sun with excellent drainage to thrive post-transplant.
• Avoid heavy mulching directly on the plant’s crown, as it can trap moisture and lead to rot.
• Transplant on overcast days or in the early morning to reduce stress on the plant.

Each lavender variety shares some common needs, like well-draining soil and sunny conditions, but understanding the subtle differences helps ensure success when transplanting.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Transplanted Lavender

Transplanting lavender can sometimes come with challenges. To help your plants thrive, here are some common problems and how to address them:

Transplant Shock

Symptoms: Wilted or drooping leaves, slowed growth, or yellowing foliage.
Solution: Ensure the plant is watered properly after transplantation, but avoid overwatering. Mulch lightly to maintain soil moisture and protect roots. Prune back one-third of the plant to reduce stress on the roots, allowing it to focus on recovery.

Root Rot

Symptoms: Yellowing leaves, wilting, and a mushy stem near the soil line.
Solution: Lavender dislikes “wet feet,” so make sure the soil drains well. Amend heavy or clay soils with sand or gravel before planting. Avoid overwatering and ensure the plant isn’t sitting in waterlogged soil.

Poor Growth or No Blooming

Symptoms: Little to no growth or flowering post-transplant.
Solution: Lavender thrives in full sun. Ensure the plant gets at least 6–8 hours of sunlight daily. Poorly drained soil or excessive fertilization can also lead to reduced growth or blooming. Lavender prefers nutrient-poor soils, so avoid adding fertilizers after transplanting.

Frost Damage

Symptoms: Blackened or withered leaves and stems after a cold snap.
Solution: Transplant lavender in early spring or fall to avoid extreme temperatures. If a frost is expected, cover the plant with frost cloth or burlap. Avoid transplanting too late in the fall when plants won’t have enough time to establish before winter.