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From late spring and into summer is lavender season. The varieties I have growing in the garden will yield a range of colors from deep to soft purple and pale pink/white. Recently, the little individual buds started to bloom and it was the best time to harvest some for drying and preserving. The rest will be left to be enjoyed in the garden throughout the summer and to give as gifts. A bundle of fresh lavender wrapped in brown paper, tied with twine, and attached with a tag to finish it off is a wonderful and personal gift to give.
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English lavender {Lavandula angustifolia} is a popular and easy variety to grow. It is native to the Mediterranean, not England. This was one of the first plants I planted in my garden because it preferred poor soil over rich moist ones. It thrives best in full sun and well-drained soil.
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This variety is known for its sweet fragrance. From the moment I touched it and gathered a bundle together, the scent was incredible.
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There are many uses for lavender, ranging from cooking and decorating to insect repellant. English lavender is a favorite to compliment savory dishes, sweet desserts, and drinks. It is also ideal for making sachets, wreaths, and beauty products.
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Four little bundles were made from my recent harvest.
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The darker lavender flowers will produce the sweetest and most intense flavor and fragrance.
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Putting together a gift package… a platter, cookbook, kitchen towels and fresh lavender.
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A simple ribbon to tie it all together.
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A sweet gift to give.
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See other herb and flower ideas:
zinnias • herbs 1 • herbs 2 • peonies • spring flowers
Posted by Kay
WOW!, Kay. Your lavender looks so much prettier than any I grow! But it’s one of my favorite flowers/herbs. It’s so simply pretty and smells heavenly. I didn’t know it’s an insect repellant ~ thanks for that info. Your pictures are so lovely to look at.