Lavender Blog Series – Part 4: From Root to Bloom

You’ve grown healthy, vibrant lavender—now what? Whether you’re dreaming of fragrant sachets, homemade oils, or a bouquet that holds its color for months, the magic begins at the moment of harvest.

In Part 4 of our Lavender Blog Series – From Root to Bloom, we’ll show you exactly when to cut your lavender, how to dry and store it properly, and what you can do to preserve its fragrance and beauty for the long haul.

✂️ When to Harvest Lavender

Timing is everything. Harvest too early and you’ll lose fragrance. Too late, and the flowers will drop or fade.

Lavender is ready to harvest when:

• The buds are fully formed, but only a few flowers have opened
• The stems feel firm and hold their shape
• The color is rich and vibrant

Morning is the best time—after the dew dries but before the sun gets too hot. This helps preserve essential oils.

💡 Master Gardener Tip: If you’re drying lavender for bundles or crafts, aim for the “bud stage”—right before the flowers open fully. For culinary or oil use, pick when the first few blooms open for peak flavor and fragrance.

🌾 How to Cut Lavender for Best Results

Use clean, sharp pruning shears or snips.

• Cut stems low, but above the woody base—about 2–3 inches above the foliage
• Gather 8–12 stems per bundle, depending on size
• Keep stem lengths uniform for even drying

If you’re cutting from a large plant, shape it as you go to encourage bushier regrowth.

💡 Master Gardener Tip: Cutting lavender isn’t just harvesting—it’s also pruning. A strong mid-season cut will keep your plant tidy and help prevent it from getting woody and bare at the center.

🌬️ Drying Lavender the Right Way

To dry lavender while preserving its scent and color:

• Bundle and tie stems with twine or a rubber band (it will shrink as they dry)
• Hang upside down in a dry, dark, well-ventilated space
• Avoid humidity and direct sun, which can bleach color and cause mold
• Let dry for 2–4 weeks, depending on conditions

You’ll know it’s ready when the stems are crisp and the buds fall off easily with a gentle rub.

❓ Why Do You Hang Lavender Upside Down?

Hanging lavender upside down may look old-fashioned, but it’s the best method for preserving both the shape and potency of the plant.

• It keeps the stems straight as they dry, which is ideal for bouquets and crafts
• It encourages oils to concentrate in the buds, enhancing fragrance
• Gravity helps prevent mold by allowing airflow between the flower heads
• Bundles dry more evenly and consistently in this position

💡 Master Gardener Tip: Avoid drying lavender upright in a vase—it may look nice at first, but the stems often bend and the buds can drop prematurely.

🧺 Storing Dried Lavender

Proper storage keeps your lavender fragrant and useful for months or even years.

• Gently strip buds from stems if not using whole
• Store in glass jars, cloth sachets, or airtight tins
• Keep in a cool, dark place to preserve oils and color

Avoid plastic bags or humid spaces, which can degrade scent and texture.

💡 Master Gardener Tip: Add a tablespoon of dried lavender to a mesh bag and toss it in your linen drawer—or tuck it in with stored clothes to repel moths and freshen fabrics.

🪻 Common Uses for Dried Lavender

Once dried, lavender becomes incredibly versatile. Here are a few popular uses:

• Sachets & drawer fresheners
• Wreaths and dried arrangements
• Bath soaks and homemade soap
• Lavender sugar, tea, or infused honey
• Essential oil extraction (if distilling)

Whether you’re gifting it or using it around the house, lavender is one of the most rewarding herbs to preserve.

🌼 Conclusion

Harvesting lavender is more than just cutting flowers—it’s a seasonal ritual that connects you to the plant’s full potential. With the right timing and technique, you can enjoy your lavender long after it’s bloomed. It’s a fragrant, beautiful way to bring the garden indoors.

Coming Up Next

In Part 5 of the Lavender Blog Series – From Root to Bloom, we’ll dive into creative ways to use lavender in your home and garden—from DIY products to companion planting and culinary tips.