Discovery tour on the historic vegetable farm: nature education and enjoyment!

Discovery tour on the historic vegetable farm: nature education and enjoyment!

A visit that invigorates the senses! On July 12, 2025, two colleagues from the Cologne building authority who work on urban development and climate protection visited the historic vegetable farm in the Dutch municipality of Beesel. At the invitation of the “Stichting Vergenten Groenten” foundation, they had the opportunity to explore the diverse facility in the idyllic Rijkel.

The historic vegetable farm extends over around 3 hectares and combines history with sustainable agriculture. About half of the bed areas are used for learning about nature education, creative project work and the preservation of rare vegetables. The remaining area is dedicated to the cultivation of untreated, organically farmed vegetables, which are sold on the street. The proceeds from this sale go directly to the foundation.

A place for education and relaxation

Since the garden is open daily from June to October from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., those interested can visit free of charge all year round. However, donations and annual support of the foundation are always welcome. Volunteers from the neighboring community of Brüggen have the opportunity to help with cultivation or at events. Information about this is available at stichting@vergetengroenten.nl.

But it's not just the cultivation that is impressive. The historic vegetable farm also houses a lovingly designed cooking studio, the Kookboerderij, which was set up in an old farmhouse from 1900. Here, groups such as families or friends can cook together and eat together at the large table while trying out old Dutch recipes from the 1800s to 1930s. Only the best ingredients are used, including meat, cheese and freshly baked bread.

Tradition meets innovation

The importance of these farming practices cannot be underestimated. Fruit and vegetable cultivation in the region has a long history and is based on traditional farming methods that are often adapted to local conditions. Historical farming techniques include, for example, terraced fields and crop rotations that conserve the soil. Old varieties such as the “Dwarf Goat Apple” or the “Red Star Renette” have found their natural place here my-hofladen.info.

But regional vegetable cultivation is not just about tradition. Challenges such as extreme weather conditions or increasing labor costs are addressed through innovative approaches. The integration of greenhouses and environmentally friendly farming methods are important steps into the future. It is important to actually operate sustainably and at the same time provide fresh, healthy food that pleases our palate and is good for the environment.

Integrated plant protection measures and new breeding techniques are just some of the trends that will play a role in the future. The vegetable farm in Beesel shows that traditional agriculture and modern approaches can go hand in hand.

For those who are interested in nature education or would like to find out more about this wonderful initiative, there are numerous options available on the foundation's website www.stichtlingvergetengroenten.nl. By prior arrangement, school classes are cordially invited to take a break from everyday school life in this teaching garden.

A worthwhile visit that not only pleases the palate, but also raises awareness of sustainable agriculture!