Lavender – a gift of nature for millennia
There are not many herbs in the world that bring people as much benefit and pleasure as lavender. That is why it has won human hearts for thousands of years.
One could write about lavender at great length — it is a truly versatile, enchanting and exceptional herb.
History of lavender
The history of this beautiful, fragrant, healing and useful plant reaches back to antiquity.
Ancient Egypt
The ancient Egyptians knew its healing properties and were able to extract essential oils through complex processes. They used them:
- in the production of medicines,
- perfumes,
- massage oils,
- and in the mummification of the dead.
Ancient Greece and France
The intoxicating scent of lavender was also loved in ancient Greece, from where its fame gradually spread across Europe.
Around 600 BC it also became established in France, where it is still grown on a large scale today. French growers now face strong competition from Bulgaria, where lavender thrives exceptionally well.
Ancient Rome
The inhabitants of ancient Rome also fell under the spell of lavender’s fragrance.
They used lavender oil:
- in baths,
- to fragrance the air,
- as a calming remedy,
- and as an insect repellent.
The name “lavare”, which in Latin means “to wash”, probably comes from there. Lavender was also a popular ingredient in the kitchen.
Healing and practical uses of lavender
Lavender is not only a beautiful and strongly aromatic plant. It is also a herb with a wide range of relaxing and healing effects.
It helps, for example, with:
- digestive problems,
- headaches,
- sore throats,
- burns,
- eczema,
- acne,
- open wounds.
Another great advantage of lavender is that its scent repels insects. It is therefore often used:
- in wardrobes,
- in bedrooms,
- in the home to freshen the air.
Lavender in the kitchen
Lavender also has its place in gastronomy.
You can prepare from it:
- delicious tea,
- decoction,
- tinctures,
- lavender syrup,
- candied flowers,
- or essential oils.
Lavender tea is popular for migraines, and lavender syrup is wonderfully refreshing in summer.
Lavender species and varieties
There are more than 40 species and varieties of lavender.
The most common flower colours are various shades of purple, but you will also find:
- white,
- or pink varieties.
Best-known species
True lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
- deep purple flowers,
- use in cosmetics,
- pharmacy,
- and the kitchen.
Lavandula x intermedia „Grosso“
- especially suitable for cosmetic purposes.
Other interesting species include:
- crowned lavenders,
- Lavandula Lanta,
- toothed lavender,
- and many more.
Growing lavender
Growing lavender is not particularly demanding if it has the right conditions.
Lavender loves
- dry, well-drained soil,
- sandy or gravelly substrate,
- a sunny position,
- airy surroundings.
In heavy rain it is important that water can drain away well.
Growing options
Lavender can be grown:
- from seed,
- from cuttings,
- or from purchased seedlings.
Harvest
It is usually harvested from June to August, ideally:
- early in the morning,
- or in the evening.
Lavender is not very prone to disease or pests, yet it can:
- rot,
- or be affected by lavender mould.
Although it is often said that the aromatic scent repels wildlife, our own experience shows that rabbits and deer occasionally enjoy nibbling on lavender.
Family farm
Family and close friends are involved in all activities connected with lavender:
- cultivation,
- sales,
- economics,
- media,
- organising events and further development of the farm.
Our vision for the future
In the future we plan to create:
A self-sufficient off-grid lavender farm
operating under certified organic farming with elements of permaculture philosophy.
Our goals are:
- gradual expansion of suitable plants,
- further aesthetic cultivation of the space,
- broader cultural and social use,
- cooperation with like-minded organisations in the Nový Knín micro-region.
And always:
- without subsidies,
- without chemicals,
- without heavy machinery,
- and with respect for life-giving nature.