I'm planning on planting lavender in the front yard this year, and i'm having a hard time choosing varieties.. I want to plant some 'sachet' for sure (one of the better varities for well.. sachets :P), but I'm having a hard time deciding between 'Royal Velvet' and 'Mitcham Gray'.

http://www.purplehazelavender.com/varieties.html

I've gathered that 'Royal Velvet' is excellent as a dried flower, especially for commercial growers, but I like how 'Mitcham Gray' has stunning blooms (or so they say). Does anyone out there grow either of these varities? Which would you recommend? If the Mitcham Gray dried just as well, I'd probably lean towards getting that one.. =\ Ahhh decisions!

You didn't say where you live - what is your climate and soil type? I have found Royal Purple difficult to grow and another grower I spoke with feels the same. I have not grown Mitcham Gray so I can't say about that one - other than people rave about it's dark color. Another dark one is Hidcote or Hidcote Giant - Hidcote has shorter stems than Hidcote Giant. Seal has violet flowers and holds the blossoms well for dried bunches. If you are growing lavender for dried buds you might as well get one that you can use for the dried bunches too unless you are planning on putting in lots of plants.

Linda