Signs of Summer: Lavender and Sunflowers in Michigan

Summertime Scents

The sweet signs of summer start early in Michigan, beginning with the first buds of lavender scattered across open fields. Purple blooms burst open in the sunbaked days of June, with different varieties unfolding well into the later weeks of summer. 

Synonymous with places like Provence, Italy’s Piemonte region and parts of England, lavender also flourishes in Michigan’s microclimates around the Great Lakes. Well-drained, sandy soil and ample sunlight allow the herb to thrive, and the protective lake effect sets the stage for a long growing season. Growers are clustered in several regions around the state, particularly in Northern Michigan, Western Michigan and areas of Eastern Michigan. With about 50 farms in all — according to the Great Lakes Lavender Growers — you’ll find different ways to engage from U-pick fields to lavender-infused artisan goods.   

One of the most anticipated events of early summer is the Michigan Lavender Festival, which brings together top producers, artists and makers at the Eastern Michigan State Fairgrounds.  

On the second Saturdays after July 4, Lavender Lane Farm in Milan hosts a harvest festival. The shop — Lavender Lane on Main — is open year-round, featuring herb-infused bath and body products, syrups, honeys, jams, and more Michigan-made goods. 

Pick your own bundles at Bohemian Lavender Farm in the Leelanau Peninsula, and take time to shop in the restored barn where you’ll find lavender oil, culinary creations and other botanical treats. 

Follow the scent of lavender from vendors at local markets, like the Holland Farmers Market, the Boyne City Farmers Market and the St. Joe Farmers Market. 

Sunflower Selfies

As summer deepens, another garden wonder emerges: fairytale-like fields of bright yellow sunflowers arching toward the sun. These hardy flowers can be found throughout the state and often last from early July into October, so there’s plenty of time to experience these beauties.

There are sunflower festivals hosted by local farms all throughout the season. Under an hour from Detroit, Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill celebrates all things sunflowers for two weekends in August. Learn to make crafts with flowers, pick your own blooms and snap endless selfies. 

Outside of Grand Rapids, Deep Roots Produce opens a sunflower maze in August, featuring at least 15 varieties in a spectacle of colors from bright yellow to ruby red. 

In Northern Michigan, Lavender Hill Farm pivots from purple to yellow blooms in October with the Sunflower Festival & Barn Market.

Thousands of sunflowers bloom over 18 acres at Hall Farms in the Upper Peninsula, where you can walk out into the fields for your dose of happiness.

What’s your favorite flower in Michigan? Check out 12 botanical gardens where you can find tranquility among a bounty of colors.