Growing Lavender at PepperHarrow Flower Farm
Known for its captivating scent, calming properties, and endless versatility, lavender has become a flower that’s a staple of our farm. The beauty and tranquility these beautiful plants bring to our growing areas is incredible. Lavender’s vibrant purple to ultra violet color and sweet fragrance not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also create a calming atmosphere that benefits visitors and the surrounding environment (so many bees!).
One of the lavender fields growing at PepperHarrow Flower Farm in Winterset, Iowa
Why Lavender?
We’re well known for growing over 200 different types of cut flowers at our farm, but for us, lavender is more than just a flower; it’s a powerhouse of uses. From its use as an essential oil, fresh or dried bundles, to its culinary applications, lavender is a favorite for us. Although occasionally tricky, its ability to thrive in the Midwest, where our farm is located in zone 5b, makes it an ideal addition to our fields of blooms.
We appreciate lavender not only for its fragrance but also for its practicality. The plant is drought-resistant, pollinator-friendly, and adds a stunning pop of color to the landscape. It also pairs wonderfully with the other flowers and plants we cultivate, creating a picturesque and sustainable environment.
As of this blog post, we’re currently supporting 2.5 acres of lavender, and we have plans to expand this in the future, adding new varieties and setting up interesting areas for photographs. Check out a great YouTube video for a small lavender tour of our farm here.
Growing Lavender at PepperHarrow
Lavender thrives in well-draining soil and full sun. The plant prefers a slightly alkaline soil pH (between 6.5 and 7.5) and benefits from being spaced adequately to promote airflow, reducing the risk of mold or mildew.
Our lavender plants are carefully pruned each year to maintain their shape and encourage healthy growth. We prune after the flowering season, cutting back about a third of the plant to keep it tidy and productive. This care ensures we have vibrant blooms and great harvests season after season.
Lavender’s Role on the Farm
Beyond its practical uses, lavender is a cornerstone of the farm’s aesthetic. Its purple hues contrast beautifully with the other flowers we grow, creating breathtaking scenes for our visitors. It’s extraordinary to see the fields in full bloom, which usually happens fro mid-June through early July.
Lavender is also a huge attractor for bees and butterflies, making it a vital player in our commitment to sustainability and supporting pollinators. The fields all hum with the buzz of bees, who are busy at work, gathering pollen to take back to their hive.
Harvesting Lavender
Harvesting lavender is one of the most rewarding tasks on the farm. We cut the stems early in the morning when the essential oils are at their peak, ensuring the freshest and most fragrant product. The blooms are then bundled and hung to dry in a cool, dark space to preserve their quality.
Dried lavender is used in so many different ways. We love making a dried lavender wall against our battened white walls in our barn to make a really beautiful, visually stunning statement piece for guests to enjoy when they visit.
Dried lavender can be used in wreath making, sachets, and even in the farm's seasonal offerings like holiday wreaths, and lavender lemonade. Whether fresh or dried, the lavender from PepperHarrow adds a touch of beauty and serenity to every use.
A Few Tips for Growing Your Own Lavender
Choose the Right Variety: English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is hardy and great for colder climates, while French and Spanish lavender thrive in warmer areas.
Well-Draining Soil: Lavender dislikes “wet feet.” Adding sand or gravel to your soil can improve drainage.
Full Sun: Lavender loves the sun—aim for 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.
Minimal Watering: Overwatering is a common mistake. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Prune Regularly: Pruning helps the plant stay healthy and prevents it from becoming too woody.
Need Pro-Level Growing Tips?
Check out our Lavender Masterclass here. It’s a fee based online course with a ton of great information, our best tips & tricks for how to be successful growing these tricky plants.
Lavender's Timeless Appeal
What is it about lavender that everyone seems to love and connect with? Is it the fragrance? Is it the gorgeous purple blooms? For us, lavender represents so many things. Lavender’s a blend of visual beauty, utility, and also sustainability. Whether it’s gracing our flower fields or the star of the show, enhancing our handmade products, it continues to be at the core of what we do and leans into our mission of bringing beauty, wellness and connection to people’s lives.
We would love to invite you to visit the farm and experience the calming presence of lavender for yourself. Walk among the rows of this enchanting plant, breathe in its soothing aroma, and take a little piece of PepperHarrow home with you.
Let’s Celebrate Lavender Together!
Follow along with our farm’s journey as we cultivate not only flowers but also connections with nature and our community. Lavender is just one way we share our passion for the land with you.
New for 2025, we’re celebrating our 1st annual Lavender Festival. Grab your tickets and enjoy a weekend filled with live music, great food, and all things lavender.
