Spring 2019 was tough for planting crops, so McHenry County farm John Bartman decided to try something new. “I started researching (lavender) and really thought it would be a good fit on our farm.” While he already grows vegetables and row crops, he thought it would be a good idea to add lavender to the list to better diversify crop production. Bartman believes it will be two years until the crop establishes. He hopes to meet someone who enjoys making lotions and bouquets to offer more options for consumers. He also said he would enjoy having a pick-your-own operation on the weekends. (FarmWeekNow)