Surprisingly, Michigan has emerged as one of the top environments for growing lavender, thanks to its moderate climate, sandy soils, and ample snowfall that provides winter protection. Michigan’s lavender farms are becoming increasingly trendy, attracting local visitors and tourists alike seeking the beauty and benefits of this versatile & calming herb.
Lavender thrives in Michigan’s unique climate, with its warm summers and moderate peninsula winters creating an ideal environment for cultivation. The sandy soils found in various parts of the state offer excellent drainage for lavender plants, preventing “wet feet” and promoting healthy growth.
One of the key factors contributing to the rise of lavender farms in Michigan is the abundance of snow during winter. Snow acts as a natural insulator, protecting lavender plants from cold winter temperatures and ensuring their survival year after year.
Visiting a Michigan lavender farm is not just a visual delight but also a sensory experience. The fragrant fields of blooming lavender create a serene atmosphere that calms the mind and uplifts the spirit. Many farms offer tours where visitors can learn about the cultivation process, harvest their own lavender bundles, shop farm curated lavender products or even participate in workshops to make handmade lavender products.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a wellness advocate, or simply someone looking for a peaceful retreat, exploring Michigan’s lavender farms is sure to captivate your senses and leave you with an appreciation for this remarkable herb thriving in an unexpected setting.
We cannot wait to see you this summer! Our Michigan lavender farm will be open Thursday through Saturday from May through October.
Michigan Lavender Farm FAQs
Does Lavender Do Well in Michigan?
YES! Most of Michigan is sand and lavender LOVES well draining sandy soil. Most of the English lavender varieties are perfect for the USDA grow zones in the lower peninsula.
Does Lavender Come Back Every Year in Michigan?
Most English lavender and some lavandin do very well in Michigan and are perennials. Stoecha lavender cannot survive Michigan winters and is an annual in Michigan.
Is Lavender Hard to Grow in Michigan?
When the right conditions exist (sandy soil) and lavender plants are selected for the proper USDA grow zone, lavender is not hard to grow in Michigan. Once established, lavender thrives on neglect! Learn how we selected the lavender varieties for our farm here.
How do Michigan Lavender Farms Winterize their Lavender Crop?
Most Michigan lavender farms near Lake Michigan allow "Mother Nature" to winterize their lavender crop. Lake effect snow is prominent from Lake Michigan to the US 131. Just when the temperatures drop, the lake will provide the snow to cover the crop and "insulate" the lavender from cold temps. No row covers are necessary.
Mid Michigan lavender farms may need to cover their crop. Cold wind is the biggest enemy to lavender and if there is no protection, lavender will not survive.
Here are about 75 lavender plants covered well with snow:
Do Deer Feast on Lavender in Michigan?
We have over 1000 lavender plants and have only two instances where deer had a "lavender snack." Deer may take a taste of it but will leave it alone. One was a newly planted Gros Bleu where the deer pulled the entire plant up and spit it out because it was not established yet. The other was a pregnant deer that munched a plant all the way to the "nubs." I am assuming that was a "pickles and ice cream" craving for that sweet doe!
Here is the pregnant doe we caught on security cam chowing on our lavender:
@twinflamelavenderfarm Deer do not like lavender yet we caught a pregnant doe feasting on our lavender! 🤦♀️ #deerresistantplants #lavendergarden #deer #deertiktok #michigandeer ♬ Suara Pedesaan Malam Hari Untuk Tidur - NYong Niode
Is Lavender Native to Michigan?
No, lavender is native to the Mediterranean. Lavender is not native to Michigan.
Renee started out as an avid real estate blogger in 2006. Opting for a less stressful life, Paul and Renee moved to Michigan in 2018 and started a lavender farm in 2019.
There are very few resources available to aspiring lavender farmers for growing lavender, lavender aromatherapy and lavender culinary infusion.
Renee hopes to change and shake up the world of lavender by sharing her knowledge and experience she has gained by being a lavender farmer and aromatherapist with lavender lovers all over the world.
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