About Lavender

At Sugar Creek Lavender Farm, we grow English Lavender because of its versatility.

English lavender, scientifically known as Lavandula angustifolia, has a rich history and continues to be cherished for its delightful fragrance and practical uses in modern times. Here’s why it's so beloved:

  • Origins and Popularity: Originally from the Mediterranean, especially the hillsides of France and Spain, English lavender became popular in England during the 1600s. It was prized for its aromatic oils used in potpourri, perfumes, and medicinal remedies.
  • Aromatic Qualities: The sweet fragrance of English lavender comes from its essential oils, mainly linalool and linalyl acetate, known for their calming and soothing effects. Historically, it was even used to disinfect wounds during World War I.
  • Practical Applications: English lavender is not just a pretty flower—it's a versatile plant. It thrives in sunny, well-drained soil and requires minimal upkeep once established, making it perfect for borders, rock gardens, or as edging plants. Gardeners love its drought tolerance and its ability to attract bees and butterflies, promoting garden biodiversity.
  • Culinary Delights: Beyond its beauty, English lavender is used in the kitchen too. The dried flowers add a subtle floral flavor to desserts, teas, and savory dishes. Lavender-infused honey and syrups are especially popular for their unique taste and aroma.
  • Modern Uses: Today, English lavender is a star in aromatherapy and natural health products, thanks to its calming scent. It’s also a sought-after ingredient in cosmetics, soaps, and household items.

In essence, English lavender is more than just a plant—it’s a cultural icon with practical benefits that enhance gardens, dishes, and well-being alike. Whether you’re enjoying its fragrance, using it in cooking, or benefiting from its therapeutic properties, this versatile herb continues to captivate and inspire.

Harvesting Process

Harvesting English lavender by hand involves a series of careful steps to ensure the best quality and preservation of its aromatic properties:

  1. Timing: We select the moment when most flowers are in full bloom to capture optimal fragrance and essential oil content.
  2. Tools: Using sharp scissors or shears, we make precise cuts just above the first set of leaves, avoiding unnecessary damage to the plant.
  3. Method: Carefully harvesting each flower spike individually, we ensure enough stem is left for plant health and future growth.
  4. Bundling: We then organize harvested lavender into small bundles using twine or rubber bands to facilitate drying and handling.
  5. Drying: We hang bundles upside down in a cool, dry location with good air circulation to naturally dry the lavender while preserving its color and oils.
  6. Processing: After 1-2 weeks of drying, we delicately remove the dried flowers from the stems. Flowers can be used whole or stripped for various applications.
  7. Storage: We store our dried lavender in airtight containers away from light and moisture to maintain its fragrance and quality for extended use in crafts, culinary endeavors, or aromatherapy.