Lavender farming can produce a substantial income for small growers. The fresh flowers are sold in bundles or used to make lavender oil, and the dried flower bunches are sold to florists and hobbyists for dried arrangements and wreaths. The harvested lavender is also used to make dozens of value-added products, from dried buds to aromatherapy products, skin-care products, sachets and herbal pillows. All are easy to make and in demand from consumers who love the scent of lavender. That's the beauty of lavender - unlike other perishable crops, nothing goes to waste, and profits are year-round.

Lavender is a long-lasting, easy to grow herb with a lifespan of 12-15 years. New plants are usually produced from cuttings, so it's easy to replace older plants, expand your growing area or produce lavender plants for sale at almost no cost. In addition, because lavender is so easy to dry, it can be used to make value-added products year-round instead of just during the growing season.

You can start a lavender growing business with just a small amount of money - as little as a few hundred dollars for plant starts and hand tools.

• Best lavender varieties for commercial growers.
• Top 5 lavender varieties for essential oil production.
• Top 5 lavender varieties for culinary use.
• 20 proven ways to add value and increase your profits 200% to 800%.
• Wholesale sources for lavender plants.
• Wholesale sources for value-added skin care ingredients.
• Lavender organizations in the U.S. Canada, Britain, Australia and New Zealand.
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