Featured 1 Gallon Perennial for July

Lavender Blue Cushion

Lavenula Blue Cushion is sold in this area as a perennial plant, although some might argue that here in the lush Northwest clime it's really a short-lived shrub. Treat it as you wish, the results will be equally striking.

Blue Cushion stands alone as the most free-flowering variety of Lavender, offering almost continuous summer color on a very well mannered dwarf form. The profuse and constant bloom makes it popular as a cut flower, spicing up your home with exotic aromas. And its dried blooms make wonderful sachet.

Preferring full sun, the plant tolerates some shade though blooming may diminish slightly. Not fussy at all bout soil type as long as adequate drainage and moisture are available. Fertilizing does promote growth and supports the flowers.

Since by nature it resembles a small shrub, pruning should be limited to a rounding trim in late fall, so as to tidy up appearances before spring growth starts.

While much of the information in this tip is applicable in several gardening zones/climates, some of the plants and timing suggested are best suited to the Northwest, generally in the mild/wet growing regions found along the I-5 corridor. You should make appropriate adjustments or consult local gardening experts in regions whose climates differ from this area of the Northwest.