How to Fix My Lavender Plant Turning Silver From the Bottom

Lavender is native to the Mediterranean and has been used for centuries in soaps and cleaners because of its fresh scent. Hundreds of varieties exist, and all require full sun and well-drained, alkaline soils. Lavender problems are usually caused by a fungus or rotting roots, brought on by humid conditions and heavy, poorly draining soil. Consider growing them in pots if amending the soil doesn't alleviate the problem.

• 1

  Place 1/4 inch of sand on the soil around the base of the plants to improve drainage. Remove any weeds that may contribute to water-logging. Cut back on watering if necessary so the soil dries out completely between watering.

• 2

  Dig up plants that fail to thrive after adding sand to improve drainage. Dig three shovelfuls of compost and one shovelful of peat moss into the soil. Do not add peat moss to acid soil since it makes the soil more acidic. Mix the amendments thoroughly into the soil with the shovel.

• 3

  Trim the dead leaves off the plant and replant it in the amended soil.