The Marigold Potager – A Zone 3 Prairie Garden

Lavender is a prized addition to any potager, offering fragrant foliage and a burst of purple that enriches the garden tapestry. To grow great lavender, a sunny spot with well-draining soil is paramount. Lavender abhors having ‘wet feet,’ so raised beds or mounds can prevent root rot in damper climates.

Begin by choosing the right variety – some are more cold-hardy, while others thrive in warmer zones. ‘Munstead’ and ‘Hidcote’ are popular for their hardiness and compact form sometimes even surviving prairie winters is grown in a sheltered spot.

The preparation is simple; mix in some gravel or sand for improved drainage and add organic matter to nourish the soil. When you plant your lavender, give it room to breathe; tight spacing can lead to moisture-related issues.

As it grows, minimal watering is in order. Overwatering can harm the plant more than drought. Pruning once a year, after the first flush of blooms, encourages a bushy growth and can prevent the center from becoming woody.

With love and a little attention to its preferences, lavender will reward you with its calming presence, becoming a standout feature in your potager garden.