Moestuin Leyduin is a self-picking farm located on the historic Leyduin country estate, situated on the border of Heemstede and Vogelenzang. This one-hectare kitchen garden, supplemented by additional land at Landgoed Berkenrode, operates as a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) initiative, inviting participants to harvest their own seasonal produce. The farm is committed to nature-inclusive cultivation, completely free from artificial fertilizers and pesticides, focusing on soil health and biodiversity.
Members purchase a harvest share at the beginning of the season, which runs for approximately 30 weeks from mid-April to mid-November. The cost of a share follows a solidary payment model, allowing participants to choose from three tiers (e.g., 320, 375, or 425 euros for 2025) to ensure accessibility while supporting the growers. While participation in farm work is optional, volunteers are welcome, and the farm also serves as an accredited learning environment for interns. It functions as a community hub where members can connect, share recipes, and exchange gardening ideas.
Harvesting hours are Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:00 to 17:00, and Saturdays from 9:00 to 16:00. The garden is accessible by foot or bike, with off-site parking available for cars. Children are welcome under supervision, but dogs must be leashed at the entrance and are not permitted further into the farming areas.
The diverse array of produce available for self-picking includes a wide variety of vegetables, herbs, and fruits such as:
- Vegetables: Jerusalem artichoke, endive, Asian mesclun, beetroot, celery, kale, courgette, ice plant, capuchin peas, garlic, celeriac, fennel bulb, cucumber, rutabaga, kohlrabi, corn, turnip, New Zealand spinach, pak choi, cavolo nero, parsnip, pattypan squash, snow peas, pumpkin, leek, turnip greens, radish, red cabbage, red chicory, arugula/rocket, salsify, shallot, various types of lettuce, runner beans, Swiss chard, soybeans, green beans, spinach, pointed cabbage, Brussels sprouts, tomatoes, broad beans, onions, winter purslane, chicory (roots), carrots, yacon, summer purslane, and sorrel.
- Fruits: Redcurrants, strawberries, apples, and pears.
- Herbs: A selection of herbs.
- Flowers: A sea of flowers is also grown, from which bouquets can be picked for a fee, all cultivated without pesticides.
Currently, the farm is full for the 2025 season, and the waiting list is closed due to high demand. Applications for the 2026 season are expected to open in Spring 2026.
What visitors say
This self-harvest garden is consistently described as a beautiful, idyllic, and serene destination, often referred to as a “paradise.” Nestled within a picturesque, wooded area, it offers a charming outdoor space that is also popular for leisurely walks. Reviewers frequently praise the meticulously maintained vegetable, herb, and flower gardens, which operate on biodynamic principles, yielding delicious, fresh, and unsprayed produce, including fruits. The site also features restored elements such as an old barn and charming stone walls.
A core aspect of the garden is its self-harvesting model, allowing members to gather their own seasonal vegetables weekly. This process is supported by a dedicated team of enthusiastic and friendly volunteers, alongside a professional gardener, who collaboratively establish the cultivation plan. Many reviewers appreciate the opportunity to engage with the community and even help with gardening tasks. Visitors can also enjoy simply strolling through the well-cared-for grounds, and during summer, often find beautiful garden bouquets available for purchase at reasonable prices.
The overwhelmingly positive sentiment highlights the garden as an oasis of peace, known for its friendly atmosphere and high-quality, healthy produce. Although one visitor reported an isolated negative experience regarding an arrogant and unpleasant interaction, the predominant feedback celebrates the exceptional beauty, welcoming environment, and the freshness of the harvested goods.