De Tilgrupshof is an ecological self-picking garden located at Tilgrupsweg 2A in Appelscha, which opened in January 2024. It operates on a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) model, inviting individuals to become “harvest partners” (oogstgenoten) who participate in the cultivation and harvesting of their own ecologically grown vegetables. The farm prioritizes biodiversity and soil health, refraining from the use of chemical pesticides or artificial fertilizers, and employing minimal soil disturbance.
Harvest partners have access to the garden seven days a week, from sunrise to sunset, for approximately 30 weeks each season, typically from mid-May to November. This allows them to harvest a wide variety of fresh, local produce. The annual contribution for a harvest share operates on a variable tariff, ranging from €200 to €350 per share (with a standard contribution of €275), and offers discounts for children. Participants are expected to harvest for their own fresh consumption, fostering solidarity within the community. Weekly emails guide partners on what produce is currently ready for harvest. While primarily accessible by bike, limited parking for cars is available.
The garden offers a diverse selection of seasonal vegetables and herbs:
- In spring, available produce includes winter purslane, garlic, turnip greens, radishes, capuchin peas, endive, kohlrabi, bok choy, shelling peas, arugula, pointed cabbage, fennel, spinach, Swiss chard, red cabbage, rhubarb, green asparagus, and various types of lettuce and herbs.
- During summer, harvest partners can pick broad beans, peas, zucchini, summer purslane, bok choy, New Zealand spinach, pointed cabbage, garlic, onion, red beet, carrots, beans, potatoes, leeks, corn, and various types of lettuce and herbs.
- Autumn brings a yield of beans, zucchini, sweet potatoes, daikon/winter radish, spring turnips, artichokes, pumpkins, yakon, celeriac, Swiss chard, Jerusalem artichoke, leeks, kale, and various types of lettuce and herbs. Additionally, visitors are welcome to snack on berries, strawberries, and raspberries while harvesting.
For more information or to inquire about participation, the farm can be contacted via email at [email protected] or by phone at 06 1080 7197.
What visitors say
Visitors consistently commend this self-picking destination for its delicious fresh vegetables and fruit. Guests particularly appreciate the beautifully maintained garden complex, describing it as a wonderfully peaceful and spacious environment.