The Happiest of Places - Well Sweep Herb Farm!

There are those places that just always bring a smile to our face. Well Sweep Herb Farm is one of those places for me.

Years ago I came across this gem through a friend. It's nestled in the hills of Warren County. And it's a beautiful drive past farms and mountains and charming old homes. Whenever I go there, I always come home with a selection of plants and herbs  - many of which find their way in to our products. Even on a chill, over cast day it's a trip that highlights the glories of New Jersey.

Last week I journeyed through the hills for the Winter Green House Tour. In the spring and summer, the farm, though small in size is absolutely bursting with flowers and herbs to make a gardener giggle with delight. Even in winter, there are wonders everywhere.

The tour through the green houses and the farm was led by Cyrus Hyde, owner of Well Sweep and an amazing font of herbal lore and knowledge. 

When Cyrus talks about the history of the various herbs and plants, there is a passion that is contagious. He can tell you about the biblical references for the herbs, the folk lore, medicinal uses, and their growing habits. Many of the plants available at Well Sweep are developed by Cyrus over the years. A favorite is Cy's Sunburt Scented Geranium. It's delightful and smells fabulous! The selection of lavenders and rosemary's is amazing.

Part of the tour was conducted by Patrick, Cyrus's grandson. In him you can hear the same passion as his grandfather. His knowledge also expansive. He is very well versed in carnivorous plants, which is really cool. And he's developing his own talents at creating topiaries, which are a specialty of Well Sweep.

I could go on and on about Well Sweep. Their shop is packed with interesting herb related items: dried herbs, essential oils, books, note cards, planters, etc. And if you enjoy making your own dried arrangements, their selection of dried flowers is unsurpassed and beautifully displayed.

At the height of the season, the farm is filled with perennials as well as exotic plants. There are places to enjoy a picnic lunch, you can stroll through the magnificent display gardens, and get advice from generations of experienced herbal and professionals. They have a number events throughout the year and I strongly recommend you take advantage. It is a place filled with wonder and magic and I'm pretty sure there's a few fairies around there, too. Just check Louise's fairy garden. It is really one of my happy places. I hope it becomes one of yours.