Get Lost In The Acres Of Flowers At The Beautiful Sleepy Bees Lavender Farm In Nebraska
You’ve probably heard that old Mark Twain quote, “Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” That sentiment couldn’t be more true than it is for Jerry and Holly McCabe, owners of Sleepy Bees Lavender Farm in Cortland. When their jobs were suddenly moved out of state, the couple made the “terrifying” decision to do something they knew they would love: they turned their 21-acre property into a lavender- and honey-producing farm.
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The couple moved from Lincoln to this lovely 21-acre farm just outside of Cortland, Nebraska in 2016. Not long after, they made their acreage into a vibrant lavender farm.
It was no easy task. Lavender is notoriously picky, and it doesn't enjoy Nebraska's climate at all. Still, the couple was committed to making this happen. They attended craft shows, visited other lavender farms, and even acquired a mentor in another lavender farmer, all to learn more about this beautiful but finicky crop.
Complementing the lavender plants are the farm's three colonies of honey bees. These super-pollinators keep the plants growing and healthy, and the honey they produce has a distinctive flavor. This honey and the wax provided by the bees goes into some of the products made here at the farm.
Since planting their first lavender plants in 2018, the McCabes have spent their springs and summers growing and harvesting, then turning their lavender into fantastic products that they then sell at farmers' markets, craft shows, and various other events.
Can you imagine how great it must smell to be in a room with rows upon rows of drying lavender? It's like instant relaxation! The plants are all raised without pesticides and the products are all made in small batches to ensure their quality.
If you have a lavender-lover in your life, the products from Sleepy Bees Lavender Farm make the perfect gifts. Get everything from lip balm to bath bombs and so much in between.
The soap is especially luscious. Taking a shower with it is almost like a spa experience thanks to its dreamy smell. The farm also produces culinary lavender, a delicious addition to drinks, sweets, and more.
The McCabes plan to host lavender festivals here every summer. Until then, you can buy their products in their in-home gift shop or order from their website.
The 2020 growing season will be tricky thanks to worries and restrictions regarding the coronavirus pandemic. At the time of publication, the owners are still planning to go through with the lavender festival in July, but that is subject to change. Follow along on the farm’s Facebook page or website to stay up to date on any upcoming news.
As a lifelong Nebraskan, Delana loves discovering the many hidden treasures of her state. She has worked as a writer and editor since 2007. Delana's work has been featured on more than a dozen websites and in Nebraska Life Magazine.
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