Lisa Ganora fell in love with medicinal plants and natural healing. Her scientifically integrated and holistic approach to health and wellness led her to open an herbal education and retreat center of her own. Founded in 2016, Elderberry’s Farm is a botanical sanctuary nestled in Paonia, Colorado.

Elderberry’s is a place for Coloradans to step away from the hustle of daily life and reconnect with the natural world. Located at 1978 Harding Rd. on four acres of land, it offers herbal workshops, immersions, apprenticeships and retreats.

“Elderberry’s is a place to slow down and remember that the earth gives us life: through the air we breathe, the water we drink, the foods and herbs that nourish and heal us,” Ganora says. “We practice gratitude and a right relationship with nature as we dive into unique, hands-on learning experiences with living herbs.”

Together with her co-creator, Kat Martello, Ganora offers a nourishing and healing space to help people reconnect with the deep healing powers of nature, wild foods and medicinal plants. This summer, it’s a must-stop whether you want to tour the property, take a class or even stay the night.

"At Elderberry's Farm, you can immerse yourself in four beautiful acres of herbal legend, lore, arts and sciences,” Martello shares. “Here, you’ll find our beloved Grandmother apple tree, believed to be one of the oldest in the valley. Relax by the crackling bonfire under the Milky Way while listening to the soothing sounds of Minnesota creek. Enjoy the vivid alpine glow from the hiking and biking trails that ribbon through the valley surrounded by snowy peaks.”

If you haven’t been, a first look at the property is an enchanting experience. It’s no wonder why people from all over Western Colorado flock here to learn from the experts and the surrounding natural land at Elderberry’s.

“We are nestled in a community that is lush with peach, apple and cherry orchards, fruit, flower and vegetable farms, vineyards, and small-batch dairy producers. We connect with the earth by growing a variety of food and medicinal herbs in our organic gardens,” Martello adds.

Ganora fully believes in the integration of traditional herbal and modern medicine. She says herbs and medications work differently, and both have applications where they shine. For her, the use of medicinal, nutrient-dense foods along with nourishing and tonic herbs serves as the foundation for building personal health and vitality — something everyone has turned a closer eye to in recent years.

Outside of the regularly scheduled events, Elderberry’s has a variety of onsite accommodations for guests to enjoy, including two Airbnbs, a few RV spots, a tiny house and tent camping. Visitors can also enjoy the luxurious, eco-friendly bath house and chlorine-free, wood-fired hot tub.

Learn more about individualized apprenticeships and other events at elderberrysfarm.com.

**UPCOMING EVENTS**

· September 23-25, 2022 — *Medicinal Meads Workshop*
· October 13-16, 2022 — *Plant Spirit Herbalism*

Originally published in the Summer 2022 of Spoke+Blossom.

Stop + Smell The Flowers At Elderberry’s Farm In Paonia