SCampillo
Who knew there were lavender fields in Florida? Believe it or not, these beautiful purple flowers have successfully been growing on two Florida farms for quite some time now. Both farms are family-owned and offer a unique experience.
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If you’re not familiar with how lavender plants grow, they typically do not grow well in hot climates with high humidity or sandy soil that doesn’t drain well. And with Florida’s hot summers and humidity levels, extreme temps are hard to escape.
However, these two farms have defeated the odds and risen above the challenges in harvesting some of the best lavender in the South!
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, have a love for photography, or are simply seeking an aromatic escape in nature, the lavender fields in Florida are a must-visit.
2 Florida Lavender Farms Creating Magical Experiences
Southern Grace Farms is recognized as Florida’s first lavender farm in Southport, Florida by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
The family-owned lavender farm was established by Air Force combat veteran, Jason Leabo after returning from active-duty service.
Jason and his family built the farm on a foundation of organic, sustainable, and eco-friendly practices to better serve their customers and the environment.
They are committed to providing high-quality lavender products and a tranquil haven for visitors to enjoy, relax, and connect with nature.
The farm offers farm tours, special events year long, and hosts pet-friendly RV camping through the Harvest Hosts program.
They also have a gift shop on site with natural lavender products such as essential oils, lip balms, body butters, and more.
Today the farm is thriving with a variety of lavender and exudes a mission to inspire wellness and earth-friendly experiences.
Location:
1406 K O S Ranch Rd, Southport, FL 32409 (30 minutes from Panama City)
Farm and Farm Store Hours:
Opened to visitors Wednesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM
For more information on events and current happenings, visit the farm’s Facebook page HERE.
*Image from Southern Grace Lavender Farm
Sweetwater Lavender Farm
Sweetwater Lavender Farm opened after Hurricane Michael devastated the property in 2018. And what was once a livestock farm, turned into fields lined with beautiful plants of lavender flowers.
Amanda’s idea of turning the farm into fields of lavender stemmed from a childhood dream.
As a child, she remembers visiting her grandmother’s farm and flower garden with blooming flowers and fields of strawberries and blueberries. It’s what inspired her to one day have her own fruit, veggie, and lavender farm.
The farm has a store filled with lavender products that promote relaxation and helps to reduce stress including gifts for everyone.
You can find varieties of lavender creations from lavender essential oil and home essentials to lavender-infused spices, a culinary delight.
They also offer special events throughout the year that include kite flying in the lavender field canvas painting experiences.
Additionally, the farm provides a beautiful outside space for special occasions as well as education and knowledgeable guides.
Location:
20564 NW County Road 275 Altha, Florida (located in the Florida panhandle)
Farm and Gift Shop Hours:
Opens from 10 AM to 2 PM CST on the first Saturday of each month
The farm has a Facebook page you can check out for updates on times and events HERE.
*Image from Sweetwater Lavender Farm
Pelindaba Lavender Shop
If you want more of a lavender retail experience, Pelindaba Lavender Shop in Sarasota and St. Augustine is a great place to visit for all things lavender.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Does Florida have lavender fields?
As of 2023, there are two farms in Florida dedicated to growing lavender. These farms are both open to the public and provide the opportunity to experience the aromatic lavender fields during their visitor hours.
Be sure to visit mid to late summer for the best photo opportunities!
Does lavender grow well in Florida?
While the bluish-purple flower spikes of lavender blooms grow best in desert-like conditions with gray-green foliage year-round, the perfect plant of Phenomenal Lavender is an exception. Contrary to the English lavenders which don’t do well and are among the toughest lavender to grow in Florida.
Spanish and French lavender is also among the lavender varieties capable of growing in the Florida region.
Where is the best place to see lavender fields?
Some of the most well-known, photographic places to experience the beauty of lavender fields is in Provence, France. It’s the only place in the world where local farmers grow Fine lavender – commonly used for its soothing, medicinal properties.
Luberon, France, and Farm Tomita in Nakafurano, Japan are also right there with Provence for some of the most beautiful and largest lavender fields in the world.
Plan Your Trip
Before heading out to the lavender fields in Florida, be sure to check the farm’s website or Facebook page for bloom updates. You can also call the farm in advance to ensure the lavender fields are in full bloom when planning your trip.
Here are some tips to help plan your visit:
- Wear comfortable shoes or boots you don’t mind getting dirty. Remember, it’s a farm!
- Sunscreen and a hat – The Florida sun can be brutal.
- Reusable water bottle – Staying hydrated under the hot sun is first and foremost.
- Camera – You want to capture the beauty of the lavender fields. Great captures make the perfect canvas portrait.
- Take your time exploring the fields. There is so much beauty to take in you don’t want to miss.
Sandra Campillo
Sandra Campillo is an eco, vegan lifestyle and travel blogger and entrepreneur. Join Sandra and her community of readers on SandraCampillo.com to learn how to live a healthier, more sustainable, and compassionate way of life while creating a passive income lifestyle.
