Somers Lavender Farms | Washington | California
When Mike Sullivan returned to Montana, he sought to embark on a new agricultural adventure, something distinct from his previous endeavours as a cherry and flower farmer. Little did he know that his journey would lead him to the fragrant world of lavender. Today, Longview Lavender Farm, nestled on the north side of Flathead Lake near Somers, Montana, stands as a testament to his dedication and passion for this captivating herb.
Somers lavender farm is a sanctuary of serenity, where the purple-hued plants flourish under Montana’s sunny skies. With over 8,000 lavender plants encompassing 45 species and over 400 varieties, the Somers Lavender Farm is a testament to the incredible diversity and versatility of this aromatic herb.
One might wonder, why lavender? According to Sullivan, lavender is a forgiving plant, but success hinges on selecting the right variety. The climate in the area is conducive to lavender’s growth, and it shares a love for the sun and stony terrain. Native to the Mediterranean, this resilient herb has found a welcoming home in Montana and across the American Northwest.
Somers Lavender Farm isn’t just about cultivation; it’s a family affair. Mike Sullivan and his wife, along with their daughter Jaime, work diligently to nurture and maintain the lavender paradise. The farm’s idyllic landscape, framed by a white picket fence, features a charming cabin where lavender products are sold during the summer months.
As you stroll through the Somers Lavender Farm, you’ll encounter the gentle hum of bees pollinating the lavender blossoms, filling the air with their sweet fragrance. Rows of lavender plants, tall and dry, signify the end of a scorching summer season. The aroma of lavender envelops you, reinvigorated by the occasional breeze. This is not just a farm; it’s a haven for one of the world’s most beloved herbs.
Sullivan’s expertise in lavender cultivation goes beyond his farm. He has served as the former chairman of the education and research committee of the U.S. Lavender Growers Association and is a founding member of Lavender Northwest, a collective of lavender farmers in the American Northwest. His dedication to lavender extends beyond his own fields.
One of the remarkable aspects of Longview Lavender Farm is its power to bring people together. Inside the farm’s store, a map of the United States is adorned with pins, each signifying a visitor’s place of origin. International guests have left their mark too, adding pins and notes from their respective countries. It’s a beautiful testament to the farm’s ability to create a global connection through the love of lavender.
While lavender is often associated with its soothing scent, it has a history rich in medicinal and culinary uses. Lavender has been employed as a remedy for insomnia, anxiety, depression, and more. Its versatile nature makes it an essential herb in both the kitchen and the medicine cabinet.
The Somers Lavender Farm’s shop offers a delightful array of lavender-infused products, from essential oils to soaps, salts, sugars, dried bouquets, and even lavender-scented teddy bears. It’s a treasure trove for lavender enthusiasts and those seeking a piece of tranquillity to take home.
Longview Lavender Farm is only open to the public from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The off-season is dedicated to production and ensuring the longevity of the plants, which can thrive for seven to ten years with proper care. Sullivan goes the extra mile to protect his lavender from harsh winter conditions, using freeze cloth to shield it and remove it come spring.
As the end of another successful season approaches, Sullivan and his family are looking forward to the future. “Now we recoup, readjust, and grow again,” Sullivan says with a smile.
For those seeking a unique and aromatic experience, Somers Lavender Farm in Montana beckons with open arms. It’s not just a farm; it’s a fragrant journey into the world of lavender, a place where nature’s beauty and human passion converge to create something truly special. So, whether you’re a local seeking an hour of tranquillity or a traveller from afar, don’t miss the chance to explore this aromatic haven.
