Troubleshooting
Lavender problems — and how to fix them
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Woody bare base
Hard pruning into old wood does not regrow — replace every 5-7 years.
Browning after winter
Wet feet; lavender hates winter wet more than cold.
No flowers
Insufficient sun or over-fertilising producing leaf at the expense of bloom.
Lavender shab
Fungal disease causing branch dieback; cut out and dispose.
Prevent lavender problems before they start
Most lavender issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Lavender problems — FAQ
Why is my lavender woody bare base?
Hard pruning into old wood does not regrow — replace every 5-7 years.
Why is my lavender browning after winter?
Wet feet; lavender hates winter wet more than cold.
Why is my lavender no flowers?
Insufficient sun or over-fertilising producing leaf at the expense of bloom.
Why is my lavender lavender shab?
Fungal disease causing branch dieback; cut out and dispose.