Cadwell Farm - Hitchin Lavender - 01

Image: © John Lucas Taken: 18 Jul 2008

The first commercial planting of lavender in the Hitchin area was in 1823 and for over 150 years it formed one of the most important industries in the area, producing 2000 gallons of lavender water a year. At the height of the industry, over 100 acres of land around the town were planted to lavender and during the summer, the scent permeated throughout the whole town. Traditionally, local women hand-picked the flowers for sixpence a day and free lemonade. As labour costs increased, the local industry declined, finally succumbing to the competition from eastern European imports during the 1970's. The current operation was started at Cadwell as a farming diversification enterprise in 2000 and some 12 acres are planted, growing 5 varieties, on what is an otherwise conventional arable farm. The main product is now oil, the flowers being distilled to yield about 2% oil. High yields, and consequently perfume, are dependant on mid-year sunshine so unsurprisingly, 2008 is not expected to be a vintage year! This series of photographs was taken during a very pleasant evening visit to the farm, (although the weather left something to be desired) organised by the Hitchin Historical Society. Web sites:- Hitchin Lavender: http://www.hitchinlavender.com/ Hitchin Historical Society: http://www.hitchinhistoricals.org.uk/

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