French Lavender Oil

French lavender or Lavandula stoechas is an admired and distinguished aromatic plant native to the terrains of the Mediterranean as well as to the southern parts of Europe. It is an enthusiast of dry, sun-drenched, and rock-strewn environment but has withstood the climate of England. After all, England cannot be quite considered as dry or sunny. Furthermore, French Lavender has been described to have more traditional grayish-colored leaves with jagged or saw-tooth like edges in comparison to other specie of lavender plants. Others also describe it to have a scent similar to that of a balsam plant coupled with that of rosemary’s scent.

Up until the 18th century, French lavenders have been known to be called Flores Stoechados and were not yet planted in England till 1568. Eventually, major industrial companies swarmed into England and France and devoted themselves to the cultivation and manufacture of lavender.

Growing French lavender and other lavender varieties, in fact, depends on the growing conditions and the variety that one aspires to plant. Though it is prone to blossom in dry earth and full sun, lavender can bear any kind of growing condition. As with other plants developed for their essential oil extracts, a lean soil tends to promote better concentration of oils. Also, a soil that is quite alkaline or basic and fine in texture will heighten lavender’s fragrance. However, one must expect to at least have occasional losses of lavender plants after an episode of a terrible winter or too humid summer.

By virtue of fact, it is not cold that is to blame for the deaths of French lavender plants and other varieties but the dampness. Wet roots during winter months or perhaps excessive humidity in the summers are quite the causes for this dampness. To resolve humidity problems, it is advisable to a lot ample of space between lavender plants so that there is a free flow of air. In addition, make sure to plant your lavenders in a sunny area. However, to resolve winter problems, spread some mulch or compost over freezing grounds after it initially freezes. Also, growing your lavender plants next to a wall will give extra protection from harsh winds and burning heat.

Trimming lavender plants is also a good idea to maintain them in their good shape and to develop new blossoms of lavender flowers. Trimming is better done during the spring season. Taller varieties of lavender can be trimmed at most one-third of their height while the other varieties need just a few inches to develop new blossoms. For French lavender, it is best kept at a height not exceeding three feet, inclusive that of its blossoms.

With the exquisite beauty and clean fragrance of French lavender, the knot gardens during Tudor times constantly sought the sight of this lovely shrub. Flowerbeds were grown and trimmed in geometric outlines and framed with this low shrub, especially. Even the Queen of England, Queen Elizabeth I, could not help but be affectionately fond of lavender. So, do not be the last to have this luscious and aromatic French lavender in your garden. Plant one now.