Weidetuin is a community-supported ecological park and self-harvest garden located in Nieuwerkerk aan den IJssel, in the Green Zoom region of the Randstad. Operating on a biological (organic) and sustainable model, the garden cultivates over 60 varieties of vegetables, herbs, and flowers on a 1.6-hectare plot. The farm functions as a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) project, where members, referred to as “oogstgenoten” (harvest companions), pay a seasonal fee to participate and harvest produce for their own use. The initiative emphasizes biodiversity, community building, and green recreation, with plans for a food forest, an apiary, livestock, and educational programs for schools and adults.
Self-Pick Produce and Season: Members can self-harvest a wide range of vegetables, including tomatoes, peppers, beets, carrots, parsnips, onions, leeks, lettuce, chard, endive, radishes, turnips, zucchini, cucumbers, pumpkin, celeriac, kohlrabi, broccoli, pointed cabbage, red cabbage, Brussels sprouts, arugula, fennel, broad beans, string beans, runner beans, peas, and snow peas. Herbs, garlic, and flowers are also available for picking. The harvest season runs from early April to the end of November, with possible extension into December depending on weather conditions and winter vegetables.
Business Hours and Season: The garden is open during the harvest season, from roughly March through November. Regular opening days and hours are:
- Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM (from April to September)
- Monday, Thursday, and Sunday: Closed
The farm is an operational, active business with a 5.0 rating from customer reviews, noted as suitable for children and providing free on-site parking. It is categorized as an ecological park.
What visitors say
Visitors consistently praise this self-picking farm or garden for its exceptional quality and wide variety of organic vegetables, fruits, and flowers available for harvest. The experience of personally picking produce is a major draw, described as enjoyable and engaging for all ages, including young children, and fostering a strong connection to one’s food.
The atmosphere is consistently noted as beautiful, pleasant, and welcoming, further enhanced by the friendly and dedicated volunteers. Beyond providing delicious produce, the farm is also recognized as a valuable initiative for nature education, offering teenagers practical learning about organic cultivation methods and demonstrating a remarkable commitment to sustainable practices.