Lavender Farming 101
Tucked away on Pumpkin Hill Road, our lavender haven was born just 3 years ago with an open field and a dream. When we first embarked on this journey, we learned that the key lies in SIMPLICITY. It's not about being overwhelmed by the details but rather focusing on the essentials: a small piece of land, 6-8 hours of sunlight, and well-draining soil. These elements, like the roots of our lavender plants, provide the foundation for growth.
As passionate cultivators of this aromatic marvel, we'd like to share our journey of discovering the secrets of turning dreams into reality, one lavender bud at a time. In this blog post, we delve into the heartbeat of lavender cultivation, uncovering the three essential elements that lay the foundation for a flourishing lavender farm: land, sun, and soil.
01 - Land
The land you designate for your plants will become the canvas in which your dream will begin to materialize.
Start Small - In the world of agriculture, the notion of abundance is often associated with sprawling fields and endless acres. However, when it comes to cultivating lavender, the magic lies not in the vastness of the landscape but in the essence of the lavender itself. Contrary to the expansive fields one might envision, a small piece of land can become the canvas for a breathtaking lavender masterpiece. Just one mature plant can yield up to 6 full size lavender bundles.
Maximize Your Space - Lavender can be planted within two feet of each other, so even a small space in your backyard can yield a considerable crop. Cultivating a crop on a smaller scale offers a more artisanal experience, and a stronger connection to your land, as well!
02 - Sun
Like a warm embrace, sunlight plays a pivotal role in shaping the character and vitality of your aromatic blooms. Sunlight acts as the lifeblood for your plants, as lavender needs full sun to thrive.
Enhance Your Harvest - Find space with direct sunlight - the more the better. Lavender prefers at LEAST 8 hours of full sunlight, which helps it produce a higher yield of essential oil, brighter and more vibrant blooms.
Understanding Sun Patterns: Observe the relationship between your property and the placement of the sun. Document areas that have strong, consistent exposure and map your beds out accordingly!
03 - Soil
Lavender likes to contradict itself in the sense that it loves low maintenence soil, but will not accept anything but low maintenence soil. Otherwise unusable conditions are lavender's best friend, so it's perfectly suitable for any "problem areas" on your property.
Soil Significance - Lavender plants HATE having "wet feet". This is to say, they only tolerate arid, low moisture and well draining soil conditions. Sandy, loamy conditions have lavender's heart.
The lavender lifestyle is more than a cultivation technique; it's a way of embracing the beauty of simplicity. Exploring and understanding the intimate relationship between your crop and the Earth will be your compass to success in the lavender world!
For more information, please stay tuned for Lavender Farm School, launching early 2024 on our website!
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