from Cornell Cooperative Extension, Livingston County

Mediterranean regions and prefers fullsun,dryair,andwell-drainedsoil. It does not require a lot of fertilizer. Sandyorgravellysoilwilldojustfine. The roots need to breathe.

There are a number of different cultivars to choose from available from commercial nurseries. French lavender and Spanish varieties are not hardy in most of the Northeast (e.g. French lavender – zone 7-9). There are, however, a few English cultivarsthatcantakethecoldwinters here in upstate NY(zone 5-8).

The less hardy cultivars may grow well and bloom for one summer season but will not survive our winters. Be sure to check the hardiness of any perennial you are considering planting. We are currently considered to be in zone 5. Have specific questions like the following? Why do my lilacs keep getting uprooted by NY winds?

Why do my butterfly bushes keep dying after 3 or so years? How/ where to plant juniper trees? Why do tulips die after 1 or 3 seasons?

Contact CCE to facilitate scheduling a site visit with a Master Gardener to assist with evaluating these issues as it could be a soil issue.