I was just talking about the new trend of both Sunflower and Wildflower Farms here in MN, where you can stroll through the late harvest season enjoying the blooms, and leave with a handful of flowers to take home and continue the joy of nature.
This is a similar farm a few states away in Michigan near the shores of the Great Lake. Cherry Point Farm sounds much like my native roots in Western Pennsylvania, where a combination of lake breezes and fertile soil allow for bumper crops of fruit trees. The website shows pics of seemingly perfect Concord grapes, cherries and apples. They have a market of what look like incredible baked goods and many things grown on the farm. Also Summer Fish Boils and Tuesday Teas. If it was a bit closer it would be a perfect weekend get away.
What grabbed my eye though, is a stunning Lavender Labyrinth that has become a draw on the Farm. They make a point that it is not a maze to wander in like many of the corn maze fields around here. But more like a spiritual labyrinth, that you stroll through at a slow pace being mindful of the beauty surrounding you. The centerpiece is a stone circle and it is supported by a vast herb garden of 36 beds and a stretch of trellis arbors. The whole scene appears a wonder of geometry, landscape design and inspired planting.
Much like our horrible growing season in Minnesota, I also note that their website also apologizes for the sad crop and meager display of the lavender in 2022. I have given up on finding varieties of Lavender that are tolerant to our MN winters - I know of only one person who manages to bring it back year after year. But they still welcome people to visit, take in the herb gardens which are thriving and meditate while walking the grounds. Judging by pictures, it is a bucket list adventure I hope to take in some day.
