Lavender, a staple in many gardens, is not only visually appealing but also known for its calming scent. However, due to its tendency to spread aggressively and create a dense mat, it's essential to consider what plants should not be planted near lavender. Let's delve into the bounds and benefits of planting companions and avoidances for lavender.
Lavender, with its unpredictable spread and unique watering needs, can be a bit of a diva in the garden. It's crucial to understand its likes and dislikes to make informed planting decisions. This guide will walk you through the plants to avoid when planting lavender to ensure a harmonious and healthy garden.
Plants to Avoid due to Watering Conflicts
Lavender has specific watering needs—it thrives in well-draining soil and dislikes consistently moist conditions. Therefore, plants that require frequent watering or have extensive root systems that compete for moisture are not suitable companions.
Some plants to avoid due to watering conflicts include:
Moisture-loving Plants
Plants such as ornamental grasses, hostas, and daylilies require consistent moisture. Planting these near lavender can lead to competition for water, potentially causing stress or death to both plants.
Examples of moisture-loving plants include:
- Ornamental grasses – like Miscanthus sinensis and Miscanthus sinensis 'Morning Light'
- Hostas – like Hosta 'Guacamole' and Hosta 'Patriot'
- Daylilies – like Hemerocallis 'Stella de Oro' and Hemerocallis 'Hyperion'
Plants with Extensive Root Systems
Plants with invasive root systems, like trees and large shrubs, can compete with lavender for water and nutrients, negatively impacting both plants' health.
Examples of plants with extensive root systems include:
- Trees – like Pinus strobus (Eastern White Pine) and Quercus rubra (Red Maple)
- Large shrubs – like Hydrangea paniculata 'Grandiflora' and Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle'
Plants to Avoid due to Space Considerations
Lavender, especially French lavender (Lavandula stoechas), can spread aggressively and form a dense mat. It's essential to consider plants' mature sizes and growth habits when planting near lavender to avoid crowding and competition for space.
Some plants to avoid due to space considerations include:
Small Plants
Small plants, like alpines and rock garden plants, can be easily overwhelmed and outcompeted by lavender's spread and vigor.
Examples of small plants include:
- Alpines – like Aubrieta 'Notice Me' and Saxifrage 'Tricolor'
- Rock garden plants – like Lewisias and Dianthus
Clump-forming Plants
Clump-forming plants, like ornamental grasses and some perennials, can also be crowded out by lavender's aggressive spread. Additionally, lavender's upright habit may interfere with the graceful movement of clump-forming plants.
Examples of clump-forming plants include:
- Ornamental grasses – like Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' and Miscanthus sinensis 'Zebrinus'
- Perennials – like Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' and Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus'
In conclusion, choosing suitable companions for lavender requires understanding the plants' watering needs, growth habits, and mature sizes. By avoiding moisture-loving plants, large trees and shrubs, small plants, and clump-forming types, you can create a harmonious and healthy garden that showcases your lavender's beauty without competition or stress. Happy planting!