Pluktuin Schipluiden is a vibrant organic pick-your-own garden nestled on the outskirts of Schipluiden. Established in 2020, this community-driven initiative aims to be a diverse haven for both people and nature, diligently maintained by a team of dedicated volunteers. The garden practices circular organic farming, strictly avoiding artificial fertilizers and pesticides, and actively nurtures soil health through composting, a worm hotel, and Bokashi methods. It also features its own beehives, a smart water storage system, and a barefoot path for children.
Visitors are invited to explore the garden and participate in self-picking activities, typically available from April to October, with tulips often being the first flowers to be harvested. The garden cultivates a rich assortment of produce for picking, including:
- Fruits: A wide variety from numerous bushes and trees, such as raspberries, blackberries, and other berries, alongside serviceberries (krentenboompje), pawpaws, and black mulberries.
- Vegetables: A diverse selection, with specific items like yard-long beans (kousenband) and small tomatoes mentioned.
- Herbs: Various fragrant and culinary herbs.
- Flowers: A beautiful array of pick-your-own flowers.
The self-picking experience is guided by volunteers who assist visitors in identifying ripe produce. A unique aspect is the voluntary contribution system, where visitors determine the value of their harvest and can pay conveniently via a QR code or bank transfer.
Beyond self-picking, Pluktuin Schipluiden serves as an educational center, offering green lessons for children, workshops, and lectures on sustainable gardening. It also functions as a cultural platform, providing an inspiring natural setting for activities like lectures, painting, drawing, photography, and music.
The garden is generally open for visits and picking on Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, between March 15th and October 31st, subject to weather conditions. It thrives on community support from its “Vrienden van de Pluktuin” (Friends of the Pick Garden) and various partners, embodying its mission to connect people with nature and promote sustainable practices.