Seniors Learn Lots About Lavender

SHARON SPRINGS — Thirty Sharon Silver & Gold Senior Club members learned lots about lavender at their recent luncheon meeting on Friday, June 13th at the Office for the Aging’s “Spa Ritz” meal site at the Sharon Springs Firehouse. The senior club welcomed Maria Lange from Slate Hill Lavender Farm & Sharon Sprigs who shared information about growing and using lavender. Lavender is a fragrant perennial herb renowned  for its aromatic flowers and leaves.

Since 2016 Maria and her husband Mike have operated a small artisan farm at 342 Slate Hill Road in Sharon Springs. They grow several types of lavender and flowers for drying and host seasonal U-pick lavender days and special events. Additionally Maria is the owner/designer of the Sharon Sprigs retail shop at 200 Main Street in Sharon Springs which includes dried florals and lavender products from their farm.

Seniors learned that lavender flower spikes can be used for dried flower arrangements and wreaths while lavender flowers and buds can be used for potpourri and scented sachets. Maria and Mike have also partnered with some local businesses to create an array of lavender-flavored products including vinegar, honey, jelly, shortbread, and tea which incorporate the lavender grown at their farm.

Maria invited the seniors to visit the lavender farm this season to cut lavender, walk the field, take in the beautiful view, learn more about growing lavender and shop their lavender barn. While the Slate Hill Lavender Farm had a soft opening Father’s Day weekend, the lavender plants need a bit more time before they’re ready for folks to cut their own bouquets. U-pick opportunities should be available the weekend of June 21 and 22 through July. The public is also invited to visit the farm on August 23 and 24 as Slate Hill Lavender Farm will be participating in the 13th annual Family Farm Days in Schoharie, Otsego and Delaware Counties.

This was an excellent opportunity for Seniors to learn more about agriculture and artisan businesses right in our community. 

Area seniors interested in more information about the Sharon Silver & Gold Senior Club schedule and activities should contact Anne Lennebacker, president, at (607) 547-9055.