A Lavender Love Story
Of hardy Irish blood and Appalachian pluck, Iris tells the story behind the sweeping vistas of Yule Love It Lavender Farm. A transplant from Kentucky to Michigan in 1953, she shares her childlike faith and those who influenced her, built her character to dream largely, to ultimately envision and develop a lavender farm.

 Learning about Lavender: Ideal Lavender for Your Garden
Using illustrated books and handouts, Iris explains lavender growing requirements, nomenclature and the differences in lavender varieties to help you determine the ideal lavender(s) to plan your gardens. You will be surprised at the bountiful, Michigan hardy varieties. Bring notebook.

 Learning about Lavender: Planting, Pruning and Propagating
Where is the ideal location to plant lavender? When is the best time to plant it? And when should you prune your established lavender plants? Iris answers these questions and more about the basic growth requirements to consider for planting and pruning lavender for a healthy, fragrant harvest.

Learning about Lavender: Beauty and Benefits (one or two hours)
How can one plant be so versatile? Although lavender is undeniably the most beautiful and fragrant of all herbs, its medicinal and culinary benefits are as ancient as the garden. Iris demonstrates how to use lavender in tisanes, honey, scones, and your favorite sweet and savory recipe. Presentation includes lavender recipes.

 The Art of Husbandry (one or two hours)
Husbandry speaks of loving and responsible care for home and land, the connection between household and farm. Iris shares her experience and interpretation of the wedded art through story, literary passages and demonstrations that represent practices of simple, creative conservation and restorative affection.