Lavender, French (Lavendula stoechas).

Lavandula stoechas, commonly known as Spanish lavender or French lavender, is a species of lavender native to the western Mediterranean region, including southern Spain, Portugal, and northwestern Africa. This perennial shrub is known for its distinctive flowers, which feature a spike of lavender-blue petals topped with a tuft of brightly colored bracts in shades of purple, pink, or white. It has a rich history in herbal medicine, aromatherapy, and as an ornamental plant.

History:

Lavender has been cultivated for thousands of years for its sweet, calming scent and medicinal properties. The ancient Egyptians used lavender in their mummification process, while the Greeks and Romans utilized it for its aromatic qualities in baths, perfumes, and as a natural insect repellent. During the Middle Ages, lavender was considered a holy herb and was often used in religious ceremonies. It was also used to treat various ailments, including headaches, insomnia, and depression. The name "stoechas" is derived from the Greek word "stochas," which means "ear of wheat," referring to the plant's unique flower spikes.

How to Grow Lavandula stoechas from Seed:

1. **Timing**: Lavender seeds are best sown in early spring or late fall, as they require a period of cold stratification to germinate. However, with careful attention, they can be started indoors at almost any time of the year.

2. **Preparation**: Before sowing, scarify the seeds lightly to break their hard coating. You can do this by gently rubbing them with sandpaper or soaking them in water for a few hours. This process helps to speed up germination.

3. **Soil and Containers**: Use a well-draining seed starting mix in small pots or seed trays with drainage holes. Lavender prefers alkaline soil, so you can mix in a little lime if your soil is acidic.

4. **Sowing**: Plant the seeds on the surface of the soil, as they require light to germinate. Space them about 1 cm apart. Gently press the seeds into the soil and cover with a very thin layer of soil.

5. **Watering**: Water thoroughly but gently to avoid disturbing the seeds. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Use a spray bottle to water if possible.

6. **Temperature**: Place the seeds in a bright but not direct sunny location. The ideal temperature for germination is around 15-20°C (60-70°F). Keep the soil consistently warm using a seedling heat mat if necessary.

7. **Germination**: Germination can take anywhere from 14 days to several months. Be patient, as lavender seeds are known for their slow and sometimes erratic germination.

8. **Care of Seedlings**: Once the seedlings emerge, keep them in a bright area but protect them from direct sunlight. Gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions over a period of a few weeks before transplanting.

9. **Transplanting**: When the seedlings have at least two sets of true leaves and are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots filled with well-draining soil. Allow the plants to grow for several weeks before moving them to their permanent outdoor location.

10. **Outdoor Planting**: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil for your lavender plants. They thrive in full sun and are drought-tolerant, so avoid planting them in areas with excessive moisture.

11. **Spacing**: Space the plants approximately 30 cm (12 inches) apart to allow for future growth and air circulation.

12. **Watering and Fertilizing**: Water regularly, but avoid overwatering, as lavender does not tolerate wet feet. Fertilize with a balanced organic fertilizer in the spring.

13. **Pruning**: Prune the plants lightly in the spring to encourage bushy growth and remove spent flowers to promote more blooming.

14. **Hardiness**: Lavandula stoechas is hardy in USDA zones 8-10. In cooler climates, it may be grown as an annual or in containers that can be brought inside during winter.

15. **Bloom Time**: Spanish lavender typically starts to bloom in late spring and can continue to produce flowers through the summer if deadheaded regularly.

Growing lavender from seed can be a rewarding experience, but it does require patience due to the slow germination process. With the right conditions and care, you can enjoy the beauty and fragrance of this historic and versatile plant in your garden.