Tuinderij Waalwortel in Nijmegen is a regenerative pick-your-own vegetable garden using the no-dig method. The farm grows over 50 types of vegetables and herbs, including both common and lesser-known varieties, as well as occasional flowers or wild fruit. You pick what is in season, typically five or six different crops each week.
The garden operates on a self-harvest subscription model. After signing up, you can visit any day from sunrise to sunset to pick your own produce. Casual visitors are welcome during set opening hours: Wednesday and Thursday from 10.00 to 17.00, and Sunday from 12.00 to 17.00. The farm is closed on public holidays.
All crops are grown without pesticides or artificial fertilisers, relying only on water and compost. The no-dig method means the soil is left undisturbed, improving its structure and preserving beneficial organisms like worms and fungi.
The garden covers about 2,000 square metres and is run by Douwe and Ella. There is no farm shop, but the site partners with local food initiatives. Free trial picking sessions are available for new visitors.
What visitors say
You pick your own vegetables and herbs straight from the field, with a wide variety of seasonal produce—some of it unusual, like lesser-known greens that encourage trying new recipes. The courgettes grow huge, and the freshness is noticeable. The owners are friendly and involved, happy to explain what’s ready to harvest or how things grow. It’s a straightforward setup: no frills, just rows of crops to pick and weigh yourself. Most visitors seem to enjoy the experience, though there’s no mention of facilities like toilets or seating. Prices aren’t called out as expensive, but neither are they highlighted as a bargain. A good spot if you want to see where your food comes from and don’t mind getting your hands dirty.
