A Blooming Legacy in East Marion, Long Island

Welcome to This Month in the Garden! Nestled in the scenic landscapes of East Marion, Long Island, Lavender on the Bay has become a cherished landmark, drawing visitors from near and far to experience the tranquility and beauty of its purple fields. The history of Lavender on the Bay is a story of vision, passion, and a commitment to sustainable farming practices.

Entrance to the Lavender Farm

Lavender by the Bay, established in 2002, is now the home of over 800,000 lavender plants on the original 17 acre property in East Marion, with an additional 30 acres purchased in Calverton in 2018. Serge Rozenbaum, who was born in France spent his childhood on a farm, then moved to Israel as a young adult where he met his wife Susan. In 1979, Serge, Susan and their two sons moved to Susan’s hometown of New York City, and purchased land for a summer getaway in Southhold, New York. It was where Serge designed a lavender dominant landscape to remind him of his childhood days in France, while bringing the charm of  French lavender farms to the shores of Long Island.

A welcoming place for a Photo Shoot!

Over the years the lavender grew profusely with just the perfect conditions of the North Fork’s salty air and the lavender fields continue to grow with several hardy species, including Lavandula angustifolia and Lavandula x intermedia, known for their resilience and aromatic qualities. As an elementary school art teacher, Susan started crafting sachets and bouquets from leftover flowers, while Serge took on bee keeping as a side hobby. The demand for lavender and eventually lavender honey grew to the point that the couple needed more land. They found the perfect location in East Marion, Long Island and established Lavender by the Bay.

Sit and Enjoy the View

Word of the farm’s enchanting fields quickly spread, and Lavender on the Bay became a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The Rozenbaum’s expanded their operations, planting additional acres of lavender and incorporating other complementary plants such as rosemary and sage. The farm also began producing a variety of lavender-based products, from essential oils and soaps to culinary delights and decorative items.

Live Life in Full Bloom!

Beyond its commercial success, Lavender on the Bay has played a significant role in the community. The Rozenbaum family has been dedicated to educating the public about the benefits and uses of lavender. They host workshops and tours, teaching visitors about lavender cultivation, harvesting techniques, and the plant’s many uses. The farm also collaborates with local schools and organizations, providing hands-on learning experiences for students and promoting environmental stewardship.

Lavender Fields Forever

Sustainability has been a cornerstone of Lavender on the Bay’s operations. The Rozenbaums have implemented eco-friendly practices, including organic farming methods and water conservation techniques. They have also explored innovative uses of lavender, such as natural pest control solutions and soil enhancement methods. These efforts have earned the farm recognition for its commitment to preserving the local ecosystem while maintaining high-quality production standards.

Welcome to the Store!

Lavender on the Bay has had a profound impact on the cultural and economic landscape of East Marion and the greater Long Island area. The farm has become a symbol of local pride, attracting visitors and boosting tourism. It has also created job opportunities and supported local businesses through partnerships and collaborations. Each year a portion of the field entry fee is donated to various groups, spreading the love of lavender throughout the community.

For a Love of Lavender

As Lavender on the Bay continues to flourish, the Rozenbaum family remains dedicated to their original vision of creating a serene, beautiful space for people to connect with nature. They are exploring new varieties of lavender and expanding their product line, always with an eye toward sustainability and quality. With each passing year, the farm’s legacy grows, rooted in a deep love for lavender and a commitment to enriching the lives of all who visit.

More Lavender!

While exploring the farm, you will experience two types of lavender, English with a sweeter fragrance and vibrant purple flower and French with a stronger fragrance, slightly duller coloration, and taller bloom. Typically, English Lavender will bloom from mid-late June, while some varieties of English Lavender will bloom at the end of the summer into early fall. French lavender blooms in the beginning of July, peaks for about two weeks then extends into the end of July. Both types have their fragrance and attributes.

Lavender and Yarrow Dried Flowers

Lavender on the Bay is more than just a farm; it is a living testament to the power of passion and vision. From its humble beginnings to its status as a beloved local landmark, the farm embodies the spirit of Long Island—resilient, innovative, and deeply connected to the land. As it continues to bloom, Lavender on the Bay will undoubtedly remain a cherished part of East Marion’s history and a beacon of natural beauty for generations to come.

You are where you need to be…Just Breathe!

I hope you enjoyed This Month in the Garden. Be sure to stop by on the 1st. and 15th. of each month as I continue to share gardening tips, information and horticultural adventures!