Otis Orchards farm showcases lavender
In Otis Orchards sits a “little piece of paradise,” where one can walk down an aisle through a parted sea of purple and be soothed by the scent of fresh calming lavender.
It’s called the Leisure Lavender Farm, and for the past seven years, owners Ron and Judy Seaman and Greg and Elecia Seaman have been sharing the herb in the form of dried or fresh bundles, potted plants, oils, soaps, lotions and more.
About 900 bushes bloom on the farm, peaking through the month of July when the Seamans open their fields to the public. You can pick your own or purchase lavender products from the retail shop next to the field. You can sit on the large covered porch, enjoy a cup of lavender tea, and get schooled on the many uses of the herb.
The history of its benefits is long and well documented. “We did a lot of research,” said Judy Seaman. Lavender is good for headaches and anxiety; its oil has antiseptic and healing qualities. It has even been used as a charm against evil.
While more than 70 varieties of the plant exist, many won’t grow in this area. The Seamans grow six hearty assortments, and they are more than willing to explain every possible use. For example, one of the few plants that should be used for cooking is the Provence. It is less oily and, when dried, lends a unique flavor to fish, meat, vegetables, and even ice cream.
Elecia Seaman was introduced to lavender through her work as a massage therapist, and often uses the relaxing aroma. “We had the property and thought, ‘Why not?’ ”
Elecia and Greg Seaman live on site in an old farmhouse and Ron and Judy Seaman live at Newman Lake. They use their kitchens to create their lavender concoctions. Ron Seaman is retired and the others have day jobs, dedicating much of their off time to their passion for lavender.
They share their knowledge with garden clubs, retirement homes and Girl Scouts. They donate portions of their proceeds to the Children’s Miracle Network during one weekend in July, and are open to selling handmade lavender products on consignment. Recently, regular customer Linda Ray stopped by with a basket filled with lavender sachets and cards that she hopes to consign at the shop. “It’s fun to come out and look at the fields,” she said.