Wildlife value of Lavender — an unexpected bonus

I planted Lavender primarily for ornamental reasons. What I didn't anticipate was the wildlife it would attract. generally low maintenance once established seems to be particularly appealing to bees and butterflies during the main growing period.

I grow it in a formal clipped topiary or box hedge which allows me to watch the activity up close. summer flowering on the current season's growth is the most active period for wildlife visits. watering in dry spells in the first two seasons after planting is important for keeping the plant healthy enough to flower well and provide that value. dieback from harsh winters on marginally hardy varieties is the thing to watch — it reduces flowering and therefore wildlife visits if left unchecked. A plant that earns its place twice over.