Gardening guide for late summer oleander and lavender care

Late summer provides a critical window for essential gardening tasks, including the propagation of oleander and the pruning of lavender to ensure healthy growth in the coming season.

For oleander (Nerium oleander), early September is the final opportunity for semi-hardwood cuttings before declining temperatures and shorter days hinder rooting. Experts suggest using approximately 10-centimeter leafy cuttings taken just below a node. These can be rooted in water or a well-draining medium, such as a mix of compost and perlite or coarse sand, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.

Lavender requires specific pruning techniques following its main flowering period to redirect energy from seed production toward new shoot development. The Royal Horticultural Society recommends pruning annually in late summer by removing faded flowers and approximately 2.5 centimeters of leafy growth. It is vital to prune only the green, leafy sections and avoid cutting into old, brown, woody stems to maintain the plant's health and shape.