Lavender & Ice, Ice, Baby -- Isn’t Very Nice, Nice Baby / Lavender Winter Protection Tips

Winter Protection for Lavender: Shielding Our Fields from the Ice

The winter season has been exceptionally cold, snowy, and icy. At Hickory Run Lavender Farm, we take extra steps to ensure our plants survive the cold months. We cover them to guard against ice and freezing winds. Want to learn some lavender winter protection tips at Hickory Run Lavender Farm? Let’s dive in!

Why Does Lavender Need Winter Protection?

While lavender is a hardy plant, extreme winter conditions can be tough on it—especially with ice, snow, and fluctuating temperatures. Harsh winds and freezing moisture can cause stress, leading to damage or even plant loss. That’s why proper winter care is essential.

How We Protect Our Lavender

To keep our plants healthy through the winter, we use breathable row covers to shield them from harsh elements. These covers help:

• Insulate Against Cold Temperatures: Keeping the roots warm prevents sudden freeze-thaw cycles.

• Reduce Ice Damage: Ice can weigh down delicate stems, but covering plants provides a protective barrier.

• Prevent Excess Moisture: Too much moisture can cause root rot, so covering helps control exposure.

  
  

At Hickory Run Lavender Farm, we use a crop cover called Covertan. It is a unique non-woven fabric that is tear-resistant and UV stabilized, allowing 90% of light to reach the crop. In the pictures, you can see some of the green sprigs hidden under the crop cover.

Lavender Sprigs Under Cover Crop

Tips for Protecting Your Lavender in Winter

If you grow lavender at home, here are some simple ways to ensure your plants make it through the cold months:

1. Mulch Around the Base: Adding a layer of straw helps insulate the roots, or you can use a moisture-resistant type of bark mulch.

2. Use Row Covers or Burlap: Lightweight fabric allows air circulation while protecting against harsh winds.

3. Ensure Good Drainage: Lavender hates wet feet! Make sure your plants aren’t sitting in soggy soil.

4. Trim in Late Summer: Pruning before winter strengthens the plant. It reduces weak growth that could suffer in the cold.

   
   

Lavender Row Protected with Cover Crop

The Importance of Timing in Spring

As spring approaches, keep an eye on rising temperatures. When the evening temperatures average 45 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s time to carefully remove the coverings. This allows the plants to breathe and soak up the sun.

Remember, proper care is vital for lavender. With the right attention, they’ll be ready to burst with beautiful, fragrant blooms once again!

Conclusion: Keeping Our Lavender Thriving

At Hickory Run Lavender Farm, we love sharing our journey and the behind-the-scenes work that goes into keeping our lavender fields thriving. We understand that protecting our plants in winter is crucial.

If you have questions about growing lavender, drop us a message—we’d love to hear from you! And as always, keep calm and smell the lavender. 💜

If you are interested in learning more about lavender care and protection, check out our tips online.