Lavender is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive most winters without too much fuss. 

Every winter, these plants undergo a natural dormancy period. The leaves on your lavender plants will change from their deep, summertime green to a silvery, sage green. Your plants are not dead; they are merely resting. 

However, it is best to take precautions in areas with severe winter weather to ensure your lavender plants survive the cold months.

According to the gardening experts at Blacklotus, with a little bit of preparation in your autumn clean-up chores, gardeners can ensure that their plants survive the danger of frost and “thrive and bloom again year after year, creating stunning purple blooms not only for us but also for our pollinating friends”.

When discussing how to prepare lavender for winter, the pros claim that mulching is “hands down, the best way” to do so.

Mulching refers to applying a two to three-inch thick layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or fallen leaves, around the base of the plant to protect and insulate the roots.

Not only does this protect the roots from snow and cold temperatures in the winter, but it also works to retain moisture in the late spring and summer, when rainfall in this area rapidly decreases, leading to “stunning purple blooms”.

When applying the mulch, gardeners need to keep it away from woody and “alive” parts of the plants, as over time, the wood chips “will eat at the plant, and it will rot”. 

Keep a few inches from where the actual growth of the plant touches the mulch, and also be sure to add no more than three inches of mulch to lavender as this can lead to root rot. 

Only necessary for extreme weather conditions such as unprecedented snow or long periods of freezing temperatures, cover the plant with a burlap or frost cloth. 

This will help to protect the plant from harsh winds and frost. Make sure the cover is not too tight around the plant and allows for good air circulation.

For lavender plants in pots, move them to a sheltered area, such as a covered porch or garage. 

If the pot is small, consider moving it to a larger pot with fresh soil for added insulation at least six weeks before your first frost. 

During winter, lavender plants are in their dormancy state so if they have the right protection for their roots, they will be able to make it through the winter. 

There’s no need to continue to water them as the increased rainfall during the fall and winter months will be sufficient for their water needs. Too much water can lead to root rot.