Deerhaven Farm is located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, in the heart of the Bonny Doon Ecological Reserve. The unique combination of nutrient-rich soil and a Mediterranean climate provide the perfect growing environment for our 3000 lavender and herb plants. The farm really is a haven for deer, who graze in the big open meadow and often wander through the lavender fields with their fawns in the sum
mer. There are also lots of bobcats, foxes, coyotes, woodpeckers, blue jays, owls and hawks around the farm. In 2008 the Martin Fire burned through the farm, destroying the surrounding forest and some buildings on the property, although much was saved and anything lost was soon rebuilt and replanted. Deerhaven is family-owned and operated by Mary and David Jessen, who grew up together in Bonny Doon. As a working farm, you will often see Mary tending the plants, farm workers picking lavender and David distilling essential oil or out on his tractors!
