ThistleDew Lavender Farm

By Tina Crowson, Coordinator, OLLI at TTU, Lubbock

In 2005, after purchasing a lavender tea bag while visiting Washington State, Danny and Laurie Davis had an epiphany! They had been trying to decide what they would do after Danny retired from his career as a firefighter. With their new-found appreciation for the fragrant and versatile herb, they started their post-retirement labor of love. Today, ThistleDew Lavender Farm is home to more than 2,500 plants and is a true family affair. Since the Davises love to host visitors, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Texas Tech University, Lubbock took over 70 of its members on a tour and presentation of ThistleDew Lavender Farm in Dickens.

That day in May could not have been more perfect! As soon as the doors of the bus opened, the comforting fragrance of lavender filled the air. The tour began on the lawn beside the Davis' home and in front of the lavender fields with the Davises introducing themselves, their adult children (who work in the fields, as well as assist with product manufacturing and marketing) and grandchildren, and giving a history of their family and the farm. OLLI members then split into groups; one went with Danny into the field to learn about the different types of lavender and how they grow in the area's climate; the other went with Laurie to watch as she demonstrated several savory and sweet recipes made with the edible plant. After visiting with Danny and Laurie, everyone enjoyed being able to stroll through the fields where the Davises have set different vignettes for photographs and relaxing. Before returning to Lubbock, many OLLI members purchased ThistleDew Lavender Farm products; such as teas and culinary spice mixes, room and linen sprays, as well as lotions and soap, which are made using the plants grown and harvested by the Davises.