Lavande Braydale Lavender owners Carl Bercier and Tracey Bray-Bercier are joined by their young family in the lavender fields. Courtesy Photo

MOOSE CREEK—Lavande Braydale Lavender, one of the newest agribusinesses in Eastern Ontario, opened to the public on Sat., June 24 after holding a grand opening the day before. As you enter the laneway to the farm located at 17683 Sandringham Road in North Stormont, one can’t help but notice the rows of lavender plants that come into view.

Operated by Carl Bercier and Tracey Bray-Bercier, the farm grows seven varieties of lavender, with Tracey explaining the 5,000 plants produce purple, blue, pink, and white lavender flowers. Currently there are approximately four acres of land devoted to the cultivation of lavender plants.

When asked about making the decision to begin a lavender farm, she mentioned they had visited a lavender farm and enjoyed it so much and decided to convert a portion of the farmland to growing the plants that produced the sweet-smelling plants. Preparation began in July of 2021, with the first plants planted the following June and the farm opening this June to visitors.

Guests can access the lavender fields between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Friday, Saturday, and Sundays, with the last entry at 3:30 p.m., and an entrance fee of $8 for people 10 years and older. Entry tickets can be purchased online on their website or at the field kiosk upon arrival.

There is no time limit for access to the lavender fields within opening hours, providing the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and perhaps purchase pre-harvested lavender bouquets or pick their own to take home.

Tracey mentioned people can bring their own picnic lunch or purchase a charcuterie box for two onsite at the kiosk. She continued the boxes are “all prepared by a local baker, Boulangerie Swiss Farmer Bakery, and contain items such as “cheesecakes, cake pop, cheese, and grape cups.”

The kiosk also features the work of local artisans available for purchase, as well as Braydale Maple Syrup and “natural handmade soap from Braydale” and refreshments to enjoy.

Throughout the lavender field there are Adirondack chairs or benches to rest and enjoy the scenery.  There is the opportunity for people to take photos in the space and the opportunity for photo sessions with a professional photographer.

Tracey mentioned one of the biggest challenges the couple have overcome is the weather and specifically the winter in our climate. She explained that amazingly they experienced less than a one per cent loss “by covering the plants with over 5,000 feet of blankets.”

For those thinking of starting a similar business, Tracey mentions there is a need to do a lot of research and “make sure you have a clear understanding of all business aspects before starting.” She continued how one should “make sure this is something you are passionate about because life is so short, and you should do what you love.”

The lavender flowering season is short, with Lavande Braydale Lavender expecting the season to be over by the end of July. There is more information about the farm, special events and as this is a weather-related business, opening information on their Facebook or website at www.lavandebraydale.ca.

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