I am in the process of planting 20 Lavender plants (10 Provence and 10 Hidcote Giant) on a slight slope on the edge of my property. I'm planting them on mounds since I have nasty clay soil.

I have a couple of questions. What is an inexpensive way I can block the weeds between and around the mounds and still have the area look nice?

Also, what is the best way to water my lavender plants the first year? I usually bury a plastic water bottle with holes punched in it next to newly planted perennials but I don't know if this will work for lavender plants since they are prone to root rot.

Thanks in advance for your help.

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