10 Ways to Use Lavender This Season
Lavender is a powerful and versatile flower that doesn’t just look and smell amazing but can be used in a variety of different ways. Our lavender is in full bloom right now, so we’d love to share some of our favorite ways to make the most of this beautiful plant. Whether you use it for wellness or culinary purposes, or just around your home, here are 10 ways you can use lavender this summer.
1. Lavender Lemonade or Iced Tea
Lavender lemonade might just be one of our favorite summer creations, because it’s so refreshing and lovely after a long day. Lavender is perfect for pairing with summer drinks, and if you need some inspiration, check out our recipe here.
Iced teas are a close second when it comes to summer drinks. We recommend adding lavender simple syrup to your favorite blend, or try one of our homemade tea blends Lavender Fields or London Fog.
2. Baking
Not only does lavender go great in drinks, but it also makes for delicious summer treats. Culinary lavender pairs beautifully with citrus, berries, and vanilla so try it in any of your favorite recipes or in something new! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Lavender Lemon Shortbread Cookies
Blueberry Lavender Muffins
Lavender Lemon Pound Cake
Lavender Peach Crisp
Honey Lavender Cupcakes
3. Lavender Sachets
Sachets are small fabric pouches filled with dried lavender buds, and they have so many uses! Here are some of our favorite ways to use them:
As a car air freshener
In a nightstand or clothing drawer for a fresh smell
Under a pillow to promote good sleep
4. Lavender Honey
While honey is delicious on its own, infused lavender honey is perfect for a special treat in teas, on toast, or in dessert. If you want to try your hand at making your own, here’s a quick and simple recipe:
Add 1-2 tablespoons of dried culinary lavender to one cup of local honey.
Seal in a jar and let infuse for 1-2 weeks.
Strain and use as desired.
5. Lavender Body Oil
Lavender Bath & Body Oil is a lovely way to unwind, relax, and implement into your daily self-care routine. Either add a few drops to your bathwater for a calming soak or apply it directly to your skin after showering or after spending time in the sun. It will leave your skin feeling hydrated and with lavender’s calming properties, it will help relieve stress and promote relaxation.
6. Lavender Insect Repellent
We all know how bad the bugs can be this time of year, so lavender insect repellent is a must-have. Made with lavender essential oil, lavender works as a natural repellent that’s non-toxic and safe for both you and the environment. Plus, it smells amazing!
7. Lavender in Floral Arrangements
Lavender is a stunning flower in summer floral arrangements. Use fresh lavender stems as stand-alone pieces in bouquets or mix them with wildflowers or other cut flowers. If you want to learn more about making your own floral centerpieces, check out our personal pointers!
Alternatively, tie lavender bundles with twine and hang them upside down to dry for long-lasting beauty.
8. Lavender Ice Cubes
To pair nicely with fun summer drinks, try adding culinary lavender to large ice cubes. Place one or two small buds of culinary grade lavender in each section of an ice cube tray. Fill with water and freeze, and use in lemon water, cocktails, or iced teas and lemonades.
9. Lavender Bath Salts
A bath soak can be another great way to relax and unwind after a summer day or makes for a perfect gift. It’s easy to make at home and can be made with a variety of essential oils, like our Lavender & Eucalyptus.
10. Lavender-Infused Vinegar Cleaner
Whether you’re cleaning up after a summer garden party or deep cleaning before back-to-school season, lavender cleaner is a great way to tidy up and will leave your space smelling amazing. Try making your own with this recipe:
Fill a jar with white vinegar and add a handful of dried lavender.
Let infuse for 1-2 weeks.
Strain and pour into a spray bottle (dilute 1:1 with water for a surface cleaner).
If you want to learn more about growing, harvesting, and managing your own lavender, consider taking our Online Lavender Growers Masterclass. We walk you through the process from start to finish and provide you with our best tips and tricks for growing lavender in the Midwest. We hope you try some of these products and recipes and can’t wait to see what you use lavender to create this summer. Happy growing!
XX Jenn and Adam