The Intrinsic Benefits of Lavender
Starting the year off with gratitude for benefits our lavender farm upheld from day 1.
Lavender's roots go deep, and they're tough. They work wonders underground, improving the soil structure and creating a better environment for other plants to thrive. This remarkable perennial isn't just a treat for the senses; it's a powerhouse in the fight against climate change and soil erosion. As the National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the USDA recognize, lavender farms are carbon-capturing, erosion-fighting champions.
One of the automatic benefits of growing woody perennials like lavender is their role in carbon sequestration. (I’m excited to dive deeper into this subject as part of the Crosshatch Carbon Farming cohort! Stay tuned for more on that initiative!) As I’m learning, lavender plants excel at drawing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in their tissues and the soil. NRCS findings highlight that woody perennials like lavender can sequester substantial amounts of carbon, contributing to mitigating climate change. As they grow year after year, their carbon-capturing prowess continues, making them valuable assets in the fight against rising carbon levels.
Local Lavender.
The farmland community of Old Mission Peninsula is characterized by rolling hills, and scenic views. Residents and farmers alike value the symbiotic relationship between land and water. Natural erosion control, upheld by practices like cultivating woody perennials (no tilling here!), not only safeguards the farms but also shields nearby streams and rivers from sediment runoff, preserving their pristine water quality (hello, Grand Traverse Bay!). This commitment to sustainable agriculture becomes a shared responsibility, ensuring the protection of these invaluable water resources for future generations.
Furthermore, the sustainability of lavender offers economic benefits. Once established, these plants require less intensive care compared to annual crops, reducing the need for frequent tilling and chemical inputs. Their longevity means reduced replanting and associated costs, contributing to a more economically viable and environmentally friendly farming system. Don’t everybody rush into lavender! As I’m learning, even with an existing crop there is a steep learning curve to learn the market. There is such a thing as too much lavender to know what to do with…
Lavender farms however, with their serene beauty and aromatic allure, are more than picturesque landscapes. They truly encapsulate the essence of sustainable agriculture, reflecting core principles like soil conservation, erosion control, and biodiversity preservation—values at the heart of sustainable farming practices and I am glad to be in the business.
Until next time,
Erin
