2006 ASCFG Dried Cut Flower of the Year
Imagine rolling fields of blue mounds and air sweetly scented with perfume. That is a field of lavender 'Grosso' - at least until all the stems are cut and sold. Such is the fate of a field-grown cut flower. Lavender 'Grosso' is one of the most fragrant and productive lavenders. It produces large violet flower spikes on 2 to 3 ft tall plants. Plants are cold hardy in Zones 5 to 9.
As with most lavenders, plants are quite susceptible to root and crown rots and are best grown in well-drained soil or raised beds. They are particularly sensitive to overwatering and humidity, making them a bit of a difficult sell in the moist southeast. Avoid mulching in winter or cutting back in fall as both practices encourage root and crown rot.
Stems are harvested when the florets are well colored but before the lower florets begin to turn brown or abscise. Dry quickly but avoid drying too long as that will reduce the fragrance.
Contact ASCFG at 440-774-2887 or www.ascfg.org for more information.