A gardening expert has challenged Monty Don's widely shared tip on pruning lavender, suggesting an alternative approach to keep plants healthy. Monty Don, the BBC Gardeners' World presenter, previously advised pruning lavender as soon as the flowers start to fade, between midsummer and the end of August, to prevent woody, leggy growth.
However, some experts argue that cutting back too early can stimulate new growth that may be damaged by autumn frosts. They recommend waiting until after the first frost or early spring to prune, especially in colder regions of the UK. Monty's method involves trimming firmly to leave some fresh shoots on each stem, as lavender struggles to regrow from bare wood.
Lavender is valued for its fragrant blooms and pest-repelling properties, making it a popular choice for borders and containers. It requires a sunny spot and well-drained soil. Monty also advises watering thoroughly but infrequently during summer, with established plants needing less water than newly planted ones.
The debate highlights differing opinions on lavender care, with the key goal being to avoid woody stems and ensure healthy regrowth. Gardeners are urged to consider their local climate when deciding on pruning timing.
