If you have noticed that your beloved lavender plant is wilting, it is understandable to feel concerned.

Lavender is known for its resilience and ability to thrive in various conditions, which makes wilting even more concerning.

There are several reasons why your lavender plant may be showing signs of distress.

In this article, we will explore the different factors that could cause your lavender to wilt. Discuss how to revive it back to its healthy state. So, let’s dive into why is my lavender wilting.

Why is my lavender wilting

1. Lavender Wilting After Transplant 

When a plant is moved from one location to another, it may take some time for the plant to acclimate to the new environment. 

Sometimes, due to shock or stress caused by the transplanting process, lavender can experience wilting. 

Furthermore, if the transplant was conducted improperly or if there was inadequate root ball preparation or an inadequate planting hole size, these can cause the lavender to wilt as well. 

2. High Acidic Level in the Soil

Lavender needs slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6 and 7 for optimal growth. 

If the soil contains more acid than that range, it can result in nutrient deficiencies which lead to wilting of leaves and discoloration. 

Additionally, too much acid in the soil will prevent the proper absorption of water and nutrients necessary for the healthy growth of lavender plants. 

3. Over-watered Soil 

Too much water can saturate the soil which prevents oxygen from getting into roots, leading to root rot which weakens plants and causes wilting of leaves. 

In addition, when too much water is used in a dry climate like many areas of California or Arizona, this also makes it difficult for lavender plants to absorb moisture needed for growth and development. 

4. Soil With Poor Drainage 

Too little drainage will make it hard for lavender plants to absorb essential minerals and nutrients they need for healthy growth. 

As excess water will stay in the soil after each watering or rainfall event which deprives them of crucial resources they need to thrive. 

Furthermore, poor drainage can cause root rot due to lack of proper aeration which then leads to wilting leaves over time if left unchecked. 

5. Wilting Due To Heat 

When temperatures rise above 85°F (29°C), this can cause heat stress to plants such as lavender. 

Foliage wilts due to heat dehydration, without proper watering practices, while using cooling shade cloths or other methods to reduce temperatures. 

6. What Is The Right Soil? 

Suitable soil for lavender needs to be well drained but still retain moisture.

This way, their roots will not be over-soaked with water but will not dry out either.

Ideally, a mix of 50% sand and 50% loam works best.

This is because sandy soil is light in texture and well-aerated.

Loamy soils, on the other hand, consist of clay particles, which give them the heavy characteristics needed by plants like lavender.

They prefer heavier soils compared to other species and do not need lighter ones like roses.

7. Planting In A Small Pot 

Since lavender does not have an extensive root system, it works best when planted in larger pots.

This way, their roots have enough room to grow without becoming narrow and preventing them from getting enough water and oxygen during critical periods of drought.

This is especially true during critical periods of drought when outdoor temperatures often soar above 100 degrees F several times.

8. Over-nourishment Of The Soil 

Providing excessive amounts of fertilizer or composted material, such as manure

Provide more nitrogen than the plant needs for healthy growth, which can lead to excessive leaf production without flowering.

It can also lead to weakened stems that cannot support all the leaves, and eventually wilting is observed under these conditions.

How to fix drooping lavender

Watering your lavender is essential after transplanting. In the summer, you will need to water your lavender every day. 

However, in the winter, you only need to water it once a week. Make sure to give your lavender at least an inch of water each time. 

When you first transplant your lavender, choose a season when there is little chance of frost. 

Transplanting in the fall or winter can cause death to your plant. 

Make sure to use a pot that is at least 2 inches bigger than the pot your lavender is currently in.

The best material for pots for lavender plants is terra cotta or stoneware. 

These materials help keep the soil warm, which lavenders enjoy. 

Avoid using plastic pots, as they do not allow for good drainage and can cause root rot. 

When you water your lavender, pour the water directly onto the soil and allow it to drain out of the bottom of the pot. 

Do not let the pot sit in a puddle of water, as this will cause root rot and the death of your plant. 

Fertilizing your soil is not necessary for lavender plants. In fact, over-fertilizing can actually kill them. 

If you do choose to fertilize, use a low-nitrogen fertilizer at a rate of 1/4 teaspoon per gallon of water. 

Spread the fertilizer evenly around the edge of the pot, being careful not to get any on the leaves of the plant. 

Lavender plants enjoy lots of sun. Place them in an area where they will get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. 

If you live in a colder climate, bring your plants inside during the winter months to protect them from frost. 

If you find that your soil is too acidic or alkaline, you can alter its pH level by adding either lime or sulfur to it. 

Be sure to test the pH level of your soil before adding any amendments, as adding too much can also be harmful to your plants. 

Conclusion

By understanding the causes of lavender dropping and employing a few preventative strategies correctly, your lavender plants can thrive. 

Be sure to monitor soil moisture and apply regular fertilization when necessary. 

Also, provide extra support for the stems during periods of heavy flowering. 

Doing these measures will help ensure the long-term health of your lavender plants, making them last longer and look better. 

So take a bit of time to care for your lavender, and enjoy its beauty, scent, and calming presence – naturally.