Perennial Flower

When to Plant Lavender in Georgia

Fragrant, drought-tolerant, and beloved by pollinators. Once established, lavender rewards you for years.

The Short Answer

Georgia's humidity is lavender's biggest challenge, but north Georgia mountain gardeners and Piedmont gardeners with excellent drainage can grow beautiful lavender. The key is drainage, drainage, drainage — and choosing varieties bred for southeastern conditions.

Georgia Frost Dates

Your planting dates depend on which part of Georgia you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:

Region Zones Last Frost (Spring) First Frost (Fall)
North Georgia Mountains 6b, 7a Apr 5 - Apr 20 Oct 10 - Oct 25
Central Georgia 7b, 8a Mar 15 - Apr 1 Nov 1 - Nov 15
South Georgia 8a, 8b, 9a Feb 28 - Mar 15 Nov 10 - Nov 25

Lavender Planting Schedule for Georgia

North Georgia Mountains (Zones 6b, 7a)

Average last frost: Apr 5 - Apr 20 · Average first frost: Oct 10 - Oct 25

Start Seeds Indoors
10 wks before frost
Transplant Outside
2 wks after frost

Central Georgia (Zones 7b, 8a)

Average last frost: Mar 15 - Apr 1 · Average first frost: Nov 1 - Nov 15

Start Seeds Indoors
10 wks before frost
Transplant Outside
2 wks after frost

South Georgia (Zones 8a, 8b, 9a)

Average last frost: Feb 28 - Mar 15 · Average first frost: Nov 10 - Nov 25

Start Seeds Indoors
10 wks before frost
Transplant Outside
2 wks after frost

Growing Lavender in Georgia

State-Specific Growing Tips

Transplant from April. Raised beds with gravel and sand amendment for drainage. South-facing slopes with maximum air circulation. Don't over-water or mulch with organic materials. North Georgia mountains (Zones 6b-7a) have the best conditions. The Piedmont is achievable with Phenomenal. South Georgia: not recommended.

Recommended Varieties for Georgia

Phenomenal (the only variety bred specifically for southeastern heat and humidity). Hidcote for north Georgia mountains. Grosso for longer-season mountain areas.

Common Challenges in Georgia

Humidity promotes root rot and fungal diseases. Piedmont clay is deadly without significant drainage amendment. South Georgia is too hot and humid for reliable lavender.

Growing Tips

Needs excellent drainage — clay soil is lavender's enemy. Don't prune into old wood. English varieties (Lavandula angustifolia) are hardiest.

Companion Planting

Plant lavender alongside these companions for better growth:

Roses Thyme Sage

The Bottom Line

Lavender can be grown successfully in Georgia with proper attention to regional frost dates and local growing conditions. Timing varies across the state — North Georgia Mountains gardeners work with a last frost around Apr 5 - Apr 20, while South Georgia sees frost end around Feb 28 - Mar 15. Choose varieties suited to your region, amend your soil based on its specific needs, and monitor for the pests and diseases most common in your area. For exact dates based on your zip code, use our free planting date finder.

Related Guides

Lavender Growing Guide National planting guide with all states Georgia Planting Calendar All plants for Georgia Lavender in Alabama Alabama planting dates Lavender in Alaska Alaska planting dates Lavender in Arizona Arizona planting dates Lavender in Arkansas Arkansas planting dates
Note: All dates are based on NOAA 30-year Climate Normals and represent historical averages, not predictions for any specific year. Always check your local weather forecast before planting frost-sensitive crops. Learn about our data sources.

Last reviewed: March 29, 2026

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