Lavender Almost Here

Visiting the region of the Vaucluse and Drome Provencale, I'm currently in the middle of the big production area of France/Provence. The plants are almost ready to bloom now, but for the most part have not yet flowered. I have come across a few fields in bloom, but most seem to be fully grown but not yet ready to flower. We have had some rain and mild temperatures over the last week too, so that may be slowing the process some.

I have yet to find a good scientific, French, site about current status. Normally the best period is last half of June to mid July. Above is a picture of full bloom, we aren't there yet. If you are coming to Provence in the next 4 weeks you won't be disappointed!