For over a century, the Hoshyla family has cultivated a legacy of farming on Long Island, a testament to an immigrant's dream and enduring family spirit. What began in 1922 with Dimitry Hoshyla planting his first crops in East Meadow has blossomed into a thriving lavender farm in Manorville, a vibrant hub that draws visitors from across the region. The family's journey, spanning generations, has seen a remarkable transformation from their early days of harvesting potatoes on 29 acres to the aromatic fields of lavender they cultivate today.
The Hoshyla Farms story is one of adaptation and growth. Dimitry Hoshyla, an immigrant from Ukraine, arrived with a vision for a better life, purchasing six acres of land and laying the foundation for what would become a multi-generational enterprise. His son, John Hoshyla, dedicated his entire 85-year life to expanding the farm, building it into a beloved small business that supplied fresh produce to local households and stores. While the farm eventually relocated to Manorville, the family's commitment to agriculture remained steadfast, even as market dynamics shifted towards wholesalers.
Today, under the stewardship of Paul Hoshyla, grandson of Dimitry, and his daughter Susan Asendorf, Hoshyla Farms is experiencing a renaissance. The farm now cultivates at least five varieties of lavender, including Provence, Munstead, and Hidcote. This aromatic shift has culminated in the hugely successful \"Scent of Summer\" Lavender Festival, an annual event that has seen remarkable growth. In just one year, the festival doubled in size, attracting approximately 500 to 600 cars and over 2,000 attendees daily in 2025, featuring artisan vendors, food trucks, live music, and activities like axe throwing and shell painting.
The Hoshyla family's dedication to their land and their community is evident in the continued success and expansion of their farm. With events planned throughout the spring and summer of 2026, including their popular Lavender Festival, Hoshyla Farms continues to honor its rich history while embracing new traditions. The farm stands as a living example of how a long-held family dream can evolve and flourish, offering a fragrant testament to perseverance and the enduring appeal of agricultural heritage on Long Island.
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