🌿 Late Lavender: Still Worth the Harvest
I’ll admit it—this year, I totally missed the peak lavender bloom in my backyard. Life got busy, the garden kept growing, and before I knew it, those vibrant purple spikes had faded into dry, papery stalks. But here’s the thing: even dried lavender has its charm.
If you’re like me and you’re staring at a patch of faded blooms wondering, “Is it even worth harvesting now?”—the answer is yes. Maybe not for essential oils or fresh bouquets, but for potpourri, sachets, teas, and crafts? Absolutely.
🌸 Why Dried Lavender Still Matters
Fragrance lingers: Even dried, lavender holds onto its calming scent.
Perfect for potpourri: Mix with rose petals, citrus peel, or cloves for a cozy fall blend.
Craft-friendly: Use in sachets, wreaths, or bath salts.
Tea time: Add a pinch to herbal teas for a relaxing twist.
I snipped mine gently, bundled the stalks, and hung them upside down in a cool, dry spot. A few days later, I had a rustic bouquet of dried lavender that smelled like summer—even in September.
🛠️ Tips & Tricks for Saving Lavender
If you’re trying to rescue your lavender or prep it for next season, here’s what I’ve learned:
✂️ 1. Harvest What You Can
Snip above the woody base—lavender doesn’t regrow from old wood.
Collect stalks with buds still attached, even if faded.
Shake gently to remove bugs or debris before drying.
🧺 2. Drying Made Simple
Bundle 5–10 stems with twine.
Hang upside down in a dry, shaded area with good airflow.
After 1–2 weeks, store in a paper bag or glass jar.
🌱 3. Fall Cleanup
Remove dead or damaged stems to prevent rot.
Avoid heavy pruning—save that for spring.
Add a light layer of mulch around the base (not touching the stem) to insulate roots.
❄️ 4. Winter Prep
In Quebec, lavender needs protection from freeze-thaw cycles.
Use straw, shredded leaves, or breathable frost cloth.
If it’s in a windy spot, consider a burlap windbreak.
💡 Final Thought
Gardening isn’t always about perfect timing—it’s about adapting, learning, and finding beauty in every stage. So if your lavender’s a little crispy this September, don’t toss it. Harvest what you can, prep for winter, and let it remind you that even faded blooms have something to offer.
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