The Benefits Of Growing Lavender In Your Backyard Instead Of Grass

If you have been dreaming of a stunning yard without the constant battle against unruly grass and making sure it looks nice, then you might have already spent a bit of time trying to come up with a stunning grass alternative. Well, forget traditional lawns — it is time to think a bit more outside the box and consider lavender as your next green (and purple) project! 

Lavender, especially the English variety, Lavandula angustifolia, is more than just a pretty face. With its bushy growth reaching heights from 1 to 3 feet and gorgeous violet-blue blossoms, this perennial powerhouse is perfect for USDA Hardiness zones 5 through 10. And, though not originally from North America, you can rest assured that it will play nice with local flora and fauna, being non-invasive and posing no threat to native species. 

While you can't necessarily replace all your grass (imagine stepping on a 3-foot tall bush), you can easily plant it in your lawn space and create natural pathways, fill up spots that would otherwise be barren, and create a beautiful, lush lawn in no time.  But besides lending a gorgeous look to your yard, lavender is a great substitute for grass in several other ways, from being low-maintenance to being useful in everything from soaps to meals. Let's dive right into the perks.

If you're tired of mowing, fertilizing, and watering a traditional lawn, lavender might be your new low-maintenance best friend. Once established, lavender requires minimal watering, making it incredibly drought-resistant. This is especially helpful if you live in areas prone to dry spells or if you're committed to conserving water.  Also, unlike grass, which demands regular mowing to stay trim and tidy, lavender grows at its own leisurely pace. Simply pruning once a year in the spring keeps it looking its best. And forget about fertilizing — lavender prefers lean soil, reducing the need for constant feeding.

Next, lavender isn't just pretty to look at; it will also bring more pollinators into your yard and garden. Bees and butterflies love lavender as much as we do, and they'll visit your garden in droves to enjoy its nectar. This means you're not just planting a fragrant and colorful landscape but also supporting local ecosystems and biodiversity. And let's not forget its durability. Lavender is resistant to deer and rabbits, meaning you won't have to worry about critters munching away on your plants.

If you're still not convinced that lavender is the way to go, consider its multiple uses. Historically, lavender was used for its cleaning properties — its name even comes from the Latin word "lavare," meaning "to wash." Today, you can harvest and use it in everything from soaps and shampoos to natural oils and flavoring. It is a win all the way around.

Lavender is an easy-to-grow plant that appreciates the sunny side of life and doesn't fuss over soil quality, thriving in a range of conditions from poor to moderately fertile. However, good drainage is essential, so standing water is something to avoid when growing lavender.

When planting lavender, make sure it has access to at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. The plant is best introduced in spring when the soil temperature reaches around 60 degrees Fahrenheit and the threat of frost has passed. Starting with young plants from a nursery is the easiest way to grow lavender, as seeds can take up to three months to germinate. When planting, space each lavender bush 2 to 3 feet apart to allow for growth, and add mulch to minimize weeds. Be sure to water newly planted lavender once or twice a week until established. Mature plants typically require water every 2 to 3 weeks, depending on rainfall.

Finally, lavender is low maintenance but benefits from occasional pruning. In cooler climates, trim the plant in the spring when new leaves appear. In warmer areas, autumn is a better time for pruning. Avoid cutting into old wood, as it won't regrow. To wrap things up, if you're interested in making the switch, start small with a section of your yard and gradually expand your lavender garden. You'll be enjoying the many benefits—and the sweet aroma—before you know it.