Discover the Charm of Northern Michigan

Traverse City: A Hub of Agriculture and Culture

Traverse City is not just a picturesque destination; it's a hub of agricultural richness and cultural activities. The area is particularly famous for:

• Cherry and apple farming, contributing significantly to Michigan's status as a top U.S. producer of tart cherries. According to the Michigan State University Extension, Michigan produces about 75% of the country's tart cherries.
• The production of vintage wines, with the local wine industry thriving due to the unique microclimate created by Lake Michigan. The Leelanau Peninsula and Old Mission Peninsula wine trails are must-visit spots for oenophiles.
• Its white sandy beaches, which are some of the most beautiful in the Great Lakes region, offering a perfect setting for relaxation and water activities.
• A culturally active community that hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the National Cherry Festival and the Traverse City Film Festival.

A Garden of Earthly Delights

Beyond the beaches, Northern Michigan is home to lush gardens where the connection with nature is palpable. One such haven is Sweet Annie's Rose, a rustic shop and garden where the harmony of herbs and flowers with Mother Earth is celebrated. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the fragrant paths, discovering the therapeutic properties of plants like calendula, known for its anti-viral qualities and ability to soothe burns swiftly.

The garden is not only a place of beauty but also a center of productivity. It offers:

• Fresh cut herbs and flowers for summer bouquets.
• Dried flowers for wreaths and arrangements.
• Medicinal salves and oils crafted from plants like comfrey and mullein, recognized for their potent healing properties.
• A selection of essential and fragrance oils, including hand-dipped incense sticks and custom potpourri blends.
• Body oils made with carrier oils such as sweet almond and apricot, designed to nourish the skin without leaving residue.

The garden also serves as a sanctuary for wildlife, providing food and shelter for birds and a nectar source for butterflies. It's a place of continuous discovery, with new winged visitors often prompting a search through guidebooks for identification.

Thyme for Diversity

A standout feature of the garden is the thyme bed, showcasing an impressive variety of thyme species. From lavender to lemon, caraway to nutmeg, each type of thyme adds its unique character to herbal swags, sachets, and potpourri. The Michigan Herb Association and the Great Lakes Herb Business Association, of which Sweet Annie's Rose is a member, offer resources for those interested in the herbal business. Their websites provide valuable information and a directory of local herb-related businesses (Great Lakes Herb Business Association).

An Invitation to Explore

Sweet Annie's Rose extends a warm invitation to all: come and explore the garden, sample the sweet cicely, savor the lemon thyme, and perhaps even pull a few weeds. It's a place where the magic of herbs can touch your heart, and the beauty of Northern Michigan can be fully appreciated.

Whether you're a local or a traveler, Northern Michigan offers a blend of natural beauty, agricultural bounty, and cultural richness that's hard to find elsewhere. It's a region where every visit can lead to new discoveries and lasting memories.