Researchers test lavender cultivation in Thuringia: A fragrance experiment by the FH Erfurt

Researchers test lavender cultivation in Thuringia: A fragrance experiment by the FH Erfurt

Thuringia on the way to the little Provence

The Provence lavender fields are world famous for their purple blue sea made of fragrant flowers. But a similar picture is slowly beginning to form in Thuringia. On a total of 6,000 square meters, lavender are grown on a larger scale for the first time, accompanied by scientific research from the FH Erfurt. The six test fields extend from the Altenburger Land across the Gotha and Sömmerda district to Erfurt.

lavender harvest in Thuringia- a fragrance and feast for the eyes

behind the Erfurt University of Applied Sciences and hums it from life. Matchel, honey and wild bees frolic over the magnificent lavender bushes. Before the harvest machine, the plants are measured, which shine in eight rows of purple blue. The development of the lavender is scientifically accompanied by Jonas Buck and Meike Luderer-Planta Popple.

Collegial cooperation already shows the first fruits. The higher temperatures and drier summers of climate change promote lavender cultivation in Thuringia, although rain and thunderstorms delayed the harvest date.

A look at the numbers and the future prospects

Last spring, 24,000 lavender plants were set on six test areas in Thuringia. The "Lawita" research project is funded by the German Bundesstiftung Environment with 300,000 euros. It should run by summer 2025 and evaluate the potential success of lavender cultivation for agricultural companies in the Free State.

The challenges and opportunities of the lavender cultivation in Thuringia

The weed-olds have proven to be complex, but also challenges biodiversity and variety of insects. The research work not only aims at the optimal development of the plants, but also on how the cultivation could affect the environment and potential marketing. The distillation of the lavender to oil may offer the production of lavender oil "Made in Thuringia", another step on the way to small Provence.

The development of lavender cultivation in Thuringia is therefore not only an agricultural experiment, but also a step towards regional specialization and sustainable use of plant resources.

- Nag