De Nieuwe Akker is a 1.3-hectare self-picking farm situated in the Deventer countryside, operating on a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) model. The farm is dedicated to organic farming practices, meaning no artificial fertilizers, chemical pesticides, or genetically modified organisms are used. It focuses on maintaining healthy, fertile soil through methods like crop rotation and nurturing a rich soil life.
In addition to the vegetable fields, a section of the land serves as grassland for organic cows, whose manure contributes to the fertility of the garden. Beehives are also present, provided by friendly beekeepers, which aids in crop pollination and yields local honey. The farm features redcurrant and raspberry bushes along its borders, alongside ample strawberry patches, and a small herb garden for members to utilize. A tunnel greenhouse allows for the cultivation of crops such as tomatoes and for starting plants earlier in the season, with winter purslane available for harvest well into the colder months.
Participation in De Nieuwe Akker is through a harvest subscription, typically spanning from May to March. While there is currently a waiting list due to high demand, members can visit weekly to pick fresh produce according to their needs, guided by the farmer, Jan-Jaap Scholten. The farm also offers an organic flower-picking subscription. Members are actively involved in the farm’s policy, crop planning, and financial transparency.
A diverse range of seasonal produce is available for self-picking throughout the year. Based on recent harvest reports and general cultivation, members can expect to pick:
- Leafy Greens & Celery: Lettuce, kale (including palm kale and common kale), spinach, Swiss chard, arugula, cutting celery, green celery, endive, sugarloaf chicory, lamb’s lettuce, bok choy, orach, winter purslane.
- Root Vegetables & Alliums: Carrots, parsnips, celeriac, salsify, Jerusalem artichokes, potatoes, beets, turnips, leeks, onions, spring onions.
- Brassicas & Other Vegetables: Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kohlrabi, red cabbage, white cabbage, savoy cabbage, pointed cabbage, turnip greens, bell peppers, zucchini, cucumbers, tomatoes, corn, pumpkin, eggplant, artichokes, green beans, runner beans, broad beans.
- Fruits & Herbs: Strawberries, redcurrants, raspberries, rhubarb, and a variety of culinary herbs from the dedicated herb garden.
What visitors say
This self-picking farm and garden receives enthusiastic acclaim from visitors. Patrons consistently highlight the fantastic selection of delicious, fresh, and authentic produce, noting its healthy and organic cultivation, free from artificial additives. The garden is praised for its wonderful variety of vegetables, flowers, and fruits, with the overall experience being highly satisfying. One reviewer even expressed a sentimental connection to the location, having been born near the farm, underscoring the deep positive sentiment felt by many.