Michele Judd
Derby
Pierre Capron and I (Michele Judd) started our lavender farm in the spring of 2017, in Derby, Vermont. In our endeavor we took the time to do a lot of research and planning before we began our new adventure. We knew with some luck and determination, we would be successful lavender farmers. Our desire to work for ourselves, step away from our high-pressure jobs, and utilize family land was our driving force. We felt lavender was the right crop for us, so with a brave entrepreneurial spirit we took the leap, and fully committed ourselves to using all of our knowledge, resources, and hard work into making our small lavender business succeed!
Our farm boosts of amazing views for miles around, US as well as Canada. It is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit, helping to relax the souls of all who visit. We are excited to offer a new creative destination through eco-tourism. There is even buzz that we will host some beautiful weddings here soon!
We have 3 species of Lavender planted, Munstead, Hidcote, and Phenomenal on 1 acre, and have another acre planned for summer of 2019. A Bergey 140ft wind turbine sits on the farm generating electricity helps to reduce our carbon foot print. A small spring fed pond next to the lavender field aiding in crop irrigation. At the Lavender Essentials, we follow safe farming practices, and use no pesticides or harmful fertilizers.
Lavender Essentials of Vermont are proud members of the US Lavender growers association. Both Michele and Pierre grew up on dairy farms in Vermont and are proud to carry on the vast knowledge acquired to the specialty crop, lavender. Michele has a certification in Aromatherapy and uses this knowledge in the line of aromatherapy products the farm produces. We will also be holding Yoga classes with aromatherapy, in the lavender field this summer! The Romantic date night experience was a huge success last year, and we will be expanding on this during the bloom season.
We have many new things planned for our future, such as honey bees, a pumpkin patch, and Chamomile. We are planting a Lavender Labyrinth for our guests to walk while recharging their energy from the earth and relaxing their spirit. We excited to open our farm up to pick your own bouquet admission and offering Lavender Lemonade during the bloom. Lavender blooms in July, August, and September. We will be harvesting in September and distilling our own lavender essential oil.
Growing Lavender allows our family to combine the love of the plant with the love of the land. We feel this a great way to raise a family, build a strong family business, benefit our community, and a beautiful way to stay in love and grow old together! Thank you for your interest and please follow our progress and come see us at the farm sometime!