The fields are quieter right now, but the work hasn’t stopped. Winter gives us the space to reflect, repair, and prepare — to take stock of what the past season taught us and gently shape what comes next. Here on the Homestead, this slower stretch is when we tend to the things that don’t always show up in photos. Equipment gets tuned, notes get reviewed, and small batches are refined with intention rather than urgency. It’s steady work, and it’s some of our favorite. 

This Past Year, at a Glance

This year kept us on our toes — and occasionally flat on our backs. We brought in a small-scale harvester that turned out to be a game-changer, saving our bodies and a whole lot of time while still treating the plants right. Over the season, we distilled 63 batches of essential oil, planted a lot of new starts… and lost a fair number too, thanks to the forces of nature reminding us who’s really in charge. One bright win: our rosemary stood right up next to the lavender in the high tunnel and held her own — no small feat — proving she’s here for the long haul. We’ve continued experimenting with row techniques to reduce erosion, tested cover crops with mixed (and sometimes humbling) results, and remained fully engaged in our ongoing battle with weeds… a battle they are currently winning, just to be clear. We’ve also stayed committed to our work alongside the Natural Resources Conservation Service, learning as we go, adjusting plans, and experimenting in real time. It hasn’t been perfect or pretty — but it’s been honest work, and the fields are better for it.