Verhildersum Estate

Our standard orchard includes a number of unique fruit varieties, known and grown in Groningen as early as the 19th century. Among them are traditional Groningen varieties like the Noorderkroon, but also varieties that originated in France. Although the majority are apple trees, they’re interspersed with with pear, cherry and nut trees, all standard-sized. All in all the orchard boasts 135 ancient varieties, bearing wonderful fruit and even more wonderful names, such as Zomer Zijden Hempje (Summer Silk Vest) and Zoete Bloemee (Sweet Flower).

The orchard is maintained by a group of enthusiastic volunteers. Although yield is not their top priority, they’re always pleased with a good crop of apples, pears and plums. From August until November some varieties are sold at the Farm Museum (as well as at the monthly Farmers Market), along with homemade jams, but the bulk of the crop is processed into apple juice and sold at the Farm Museum and Carriage House.

The Spring marks the start for the year’s new activities. Mid-March the volunteers start pruning the trees, the basis for a healthy tree and abundant crop. For details of the various tree varieties, see the orchard work group’s website.