from discovery to harmony

We are an artisanal lavender farm, but Cloudscape Hill isn’t just about rows of fragrant purple blooms. It’s a testament to the traditional and profound connection between land stewardship and the cultivation of lavender. This small, 5.5-acre lavender haven has a story that began long before the first lavender plant was ever set in the ground. The initial years weren’t about immediate yields or fragrant bouquets but about deep listening, careful observation, and a commitment to understanding the land’s unique character. We believe that the lavender farm began even before we knew we were going to do it – with a deep respect for the existing ecosystem.

The first three years at Cloudscape Hill were dedicated to a process of discovery. We immersed ourselves in learning the land’s rhythms. We charted wind patterns, noting how breezes flowed across the gentle slopes. we studied the soil, taking samples and analyzing its composition, understanding its strengths and areas needing improvement. Rainfall became a point of constant observation, gauging how the land absorbed moisture and identifying areas prone to waterlogging or excessive runoff. Drainage patterns were mapped, informing future decisions about planting locations.

Wildlife, too, played an integral role in this initial period of understanding. We have both always enjoyed observing wildlife, and the creatures that call this farm home are no exception – the birds that nest in the existing trees, the deer that graze in the meadow, the insects that pollinate the wildflowers. Knowing that the farm was part of a larger ecosystem, we wanted to tend a piece of that ecosystem where both cultivated plants and wild inhabitants could thrive. True to our background in Jungian ecotherapy, this understanding of the interconnectedness of life became the foundation upon which we continue to grow Cloudscape Hill.

Beyond observation, we took active steps to regenerate the land. Since healthy soil is the key to any thriving ecosystem, rather than immediately tilling and planting, we introduced livestock – a small flock of sheep and a few chickens (okay, maybe more than a few). These animals became integral to the farm’s regeneration efforts. Their grazing naturally fertilized the land, their movement aerated the soil, and their manure provided essential nutrients, promoting a healthy and balanced ecosystem.

Even before a single lavender sprig took root, other plants were carefully chosen and strategically placed. Hardy trees, specifically perennial fruit varieties known to thrive in the local climate, were planted to provide shade, create windbreaks, and contribute to the farm’s overall biodiversity. Native perennials, chosen for their resilience and ability to attract beneficial insects and to provide medicinal benefits to humans, were added to (or volunteered!) the landscape, creating a tapestry of color and texture that complemented the future lavender fields. This thoughtful approach to planting not only enhanced the farm’s wild beauty but also laid the groundwork for a more resilient and ecologically balanced environment.

A cornerstone of Cloudscape Hill’s stewardship philosophy is the preservation of a wild space. We have preserved 20% of our land – a little over an acre – as a forest landscape. This area, untouched by cultivation, is allowed to grow wild, with only minimal human intervention. Paths are maintained through the wooded area, providing access for those seeking quiet reflection and connection with nature, but the focus is on allowing the forest ecosystem to flourish undisturbed. This preserved wild space forms an integral part of our ecotherapy campus, offering a natural sanctuary for reflection and healing.

Cloudscape Hill is more than just a source of beautiful lavender; it’s a living example of how agriculture can work in harmony with nature, and our commitment to land stewardship extends to every aspect of Cloudscape Hill’s operations. It’s a place where the focus is not just on what can be taken from the land but on what can be given back. Our deep respect for the earth is evident in every detail, from the careful selection of plants to the preservation of wild spaces. Our vision is to create a farm that not only produces fragrant lavender but also serves as a sanctuary for both people and the natural world.