Zorgpluktuin ’t Voortje, situated in Mierlo, is a unique garden that combines a self-picking flower experience with social day care services. Founded in 2007 by Helmi and Willy van Heugten, the garden has steadily grown to offer a wide variety of flora.
Visitors to the picking garden can create their own field bouquets from a selection of fresh flowers, grasses, and indigenous plants, many of which are not typically found in conventional flower shops. Guests are provided with a basket and scissors to gather their desired blooms and can arrange their bouquets at a dedicated table. The price of a bouquet is determined by measuring its circumference at the base. For those who prefer, custom-made bouquets can also be ordered, crafted by Helmi.
The picking garden is open to the public annually from June 1st to September 30th, specifically from Wednesday through Saturday, between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
Beyond the self-picking opportunities, Zorgpluktuin ’t Voortje serves as a care facility, offering day care activities in a group setting for adults with specific support needs, including individuals with dementia, Parkinson’s, somatic complaints, or those experiencing loneliness. Activities for day care participants are often nature-focused and include sowing, potting, and planting flowers and herbs, propagating plants, working in the flower and partially raised vegetable gardens, collecting seeds, flower arranging (including with dried flowers), processing fruit into products like jam and applesauce, and crafting items such as birdhouses and insect hotels. Participants also assist on the terrace, help prepare meals, and engage in social interactions.
For refreshment, the garden features a terrace where guests can enjoy coffee, tea, soft drinks, and delicious local pie from a Mierlo bakery. The day care services operate year-round, Monday through Friday.
What visitors say
This self-picking farm offers a truly delightful and vibrant experience, consistently described by visitors as a joyful occasion amidst abundant flowers. Guests are particularly impressed by the rich variety of blooms available, providing ample choice to create their own stunning bouquets, often at remarkably affordable prices. Many reviewers highlight the exceptional value for money, frequently expressing surprise at how much they can gather for so little cost.
Beyond the beautiful flower fields, the farm fosters a welcoming and peaceful atmosphere. It is often recommended as an ideal stopover during a bike ride, featuring a pleasant terrace where visitors can unwind with delicious coffee, tea, homemade pie, and soft drinks. The owners are consistently praised for their friendliness and hospitality, contributing to the overall charming and relaxed environment. The garden itself is considered inspiring, with lovely spots to simply admire, making it an enjoyable outing even for companions who choose not to pick flowers. Having reportedly expanded, the farm continues to offer a serene escape, prompting many to eagerly anticipate their next visit.