Lavender - best way to save it

hethmar

Ive a number of large English lavenders in the garden, just about to come into bloom (I find my french ones dont have such strong perfume). Every year I think I must crop them and save the lavender but Im never sure when/how.

Anyone experienced in this please.

savemoney

Take cuttings I think nows the right time

http://www.letsgogardening.co.uk/Information/Cuttings.htm

Lotus-eater

I think they are talking about saving the flowers for something. What do you want it for?
I presume it's just to smell nice around the house. I also presume you just cut and dry the flowers in the sun, or a very low oven.
http://www.google.co.uk/#hl=en&source=hp&q=lavender+drying&aq=f&aqi=g2&aql=&oq=&gs_rfai=&fp=9687b3be590eb673

hethmar

Yes, I meant for saving as inputting in drawers and in pot pourri.

hethmar

Oh this is useful: In case anyone else wants to know:

1. 1
   Harvest the lavender stems. Using a pair of gardening shears cut stems just above the leaves when the flower buds are starting to open and show their color. This is the time when the lavender aroma is at its strongest.
2. Step 2
   Place several stems together and secure the stems with a rubber band. Unlike twine or raffia, a rubber band will stay secure even as the stems shrink from the drying process.
3. Step 3
   Hang lavender bundles in a warm area away from direct sunlight. It can take between seven and ten days for the stalks to dry out completely.
4. Step 4
   Remove the buds from the stems. Place dry stems on a length of newspaper or a large towel, and gently roll it up like a tube. Now roll it back and forth on a hard surface like you are rolling out dough. This will dislodge the buds without crushing them.
5. Step 5
   Store the buds and use the stems. The buds can be placed in sachets for use in drawers or cupboards. Buds can also be stored in an airtight container for later use. The dry stems are great to add to your fire wood store and will release a nice scent as they burn

Genuisscuffy

I trim my lavenders after they've flowered. Just becareful not to go into the old wood as it wont shoot from there and you will be left with a very bare bush!!!

savemoney

Oh this is what I do. I have a old mature large lavender

I cut the tops where the dead flowers are with a large pair of cutters or scissors I put it in a builder bucket the orange B&Q type

I then trim again as first time I just cut the flowers I then cut the stalkers to make a even shape. I let the flowers dry out and then use for pot pori I only cut new growth not down to old growth, it works every year for me. I dont normally do this until around August hence why I thought you meant taking new stock