Growing Lavender in Michigan

Lavender can thrive in Michigan gardens when the right varieties are selected and proper growing conditions are provided.

While many gardeners think of lavender as a Mediterranean plant that struggles in northern climates, several varieties have proven themselves capable of surviving Michigan winters and producing beautiful blooms year after year.

Choosing the Right Lavender

Not all lavender varieties are equally hardy. Some are better suited for colder climates and northern gardens.

Popular choices include:

  • Phenomenal® Lavender
  • Grosso Lavender
  • Munstead Lavender
  • Hidcote Lavender
  • Sensational!® Lavender

These varieties offer excellent fragrance, attractive blooms, and improved cold tolerance compared to many other lavender types.

Sunlight Requirements

Lavender performs best in full sun.

Choose a location that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. More sun generally produces healthier plants, stronger fragrance, and better flowering.

Soil Matters

The most common cause of lavender failure in Michigan is poor drainage.

Lavender prefers:

  • Well-drained soil
  • Sandy soil
  • Slightly alkaline conditions
  • Areas that dry quickly after rain

Heavy clay soils often require amendment or raised beds to improve drainage.

Watering

Newly planted lavender requires regular watering during establishment.

Once established, lavender is relatively drought tolerant and generally performs better when allowed to dry between waterings.

Overwatering is one of the quickest ways to damage lavender plants.

Winter Survival

Michigan winters can be challenging for lavender.

To improve survival:

  • Plant in full sun
  • Avoid low spots where water collects
  • Improve drainage before planting
  • Select hardy varieties

Snow cover often helps insulate plants during winter.

Pollinator Benefits

Lavender is a favorite of:

  • Honeybees
  • Native bees
  • Butterflies
  • Beneficial insects

A healthy lavender planting can become one of the busiest pollinator destinations in your garden.

Shop Lavender Plants

Browse our collection of cold-hardy lavender varieties selected for Michigan and Upper Peninsula gardens.