I generally cut the blooms (with stalk) when the buds just start opening. What is your intention with the lavender?

Cute little guy! But, he does need a better home. Lavender is a shrub, and will need pot space to grow.

Agree with balloon flower.

Lavender is a shrub and it is normally planted for its flowers.

Thanks so much everyone! I;m sorry it took me F O R E V E R to finally post a follow up (very busy all last month).

Soâ¦I plucked off the buds (most of them) and made a few lovely small sachets and also infused some to try a soap idea I have. Now, a month later, there appears to be even more small blooms occurring again - so thrilled! I'm in the process of repotting it into a much bigger container (yes I know this is WAY past due for my poor but seemingly quite strong lavender!)â¦

I just have one question before proceeding: what type of potting soil would be best? I know it needs it to be more alkaline than normal plants but how do i go about getting it that way? Is regular Espoma potting soil with some "desert sand" mixed in good enough? Should I add some egg shells to it too? Or not?

All help is very appreciated!

Thanks so much!