How to grow lavender in a pot: the secret to naturally scenting your whole home

Do you dream of that sweet, soothing fragrance and a mini purple bouquet on your windowsill? Good news: lavender can be grown at home, without a balcony or any special equipment. The secret lies in two very simple words—patience and drainage—and yes, a cup of water is all you need to get started. We'll guide you step by step, with tips to avoid failure and a mini-calendar for naturally filling your home with flowers.

Germinating seeds (even in a cup)

Lavender needs a "winter" to wake up: this is stratification.

  1. In the refrigerator (3 to 4 weeks)  : slip the seeds into a sealed freezer bag with a slightly damp paper towel, then place it in the bottom of the refrigerator (not in the freezer).
  2. Prepare the container  : choose a cup or a small pot with 3 to 4 drainage holes. Place 1 cm of gravel in the bottom, then a very well-draining mix: 2/3 special seed-starting mix + 1/3 fine sand.
  3. Sow thinly  : spread the seeds on the surface, cover with only 2–3 mm of substrate, then gently firm down.
  4. Moisten without soaking  : spray, cover with cling film slightly pierced to create a mini-greenhouse, and place in bright light but out of direct sunlight (18–22 °C).
  5. The right rhythm  : ventilate the film for 10 minutes a day and keep the substrate just moist. Germination takes 2 to 4 weeks. When the true leaves appear (beyond the two cotyledons), remove the film.

Repot at the right time