KHARIS LAVENDER FIELDS: A HIDDEN GEM IN MARYLAND

Summer is the perfect time to stroll through the dreamlike landscape of Kharis Lavender Fields. Visiting during a hot July afternoon meant we had the land all to ourselves. It was our first experience of picking our own lavender, and it was simply magical! Buzzing bees and fluttering butterflies floated through the long rows of purple. The stems of both the French and English varieties swayed in the breeze, giving off that signature calming scent. And we were pleasantly surprised to receive a detailed tour of the property by one of the owners! We learned all about Claudia and Robert's story, as well as the process of growing and harvesting their lavender. Scroll down to see the moments and details that I captured during our visit!

Before roaming the fields, Robert taught us the differences between the French and English lavender varieties that Kharis grows. While the French is brighter in color and longer with a lighter scent, the English is a deeper purple and shorter with a mint-like scent.

After our time here, I have learned more about the versatility of lavender. For example, its culinary uses include baking into desserts, or making a syrup for lavender lemonade! Also aromatherapy products use the English variety in particular. And it's always a good idea to simply place a handpicked bouquet in an elegant vase to brighten up the home!

Touring the Barn at Kharis Lavender Fields

When we first entered the newly constructed barn, we browsed the lavender products in their lovely shop! From beauty products like lotions and soaps, to fun items like sleep masks and even gift sets, there truly is something for everyone. In the back, we saw the racks where hanging bouquets are stored to air dry, as well as the machinery that separates the buds from the stems. Also in their kitchen/classroom area, Robert showed us the Portuguese copper distiller that they use to extract essential oils! He was also telling us about the different events they host at the farm. There are morning yoga sessions in the fields with local instructors, and even classes to learn about lavender's culinary uses.

All in all, this farm is such a special gem in Maryland that is worth visiting for yourself. It made for a beautiful afternoon surrounded by nature, where we learned new things from kind people who are passionate about their work.