De Heimanshof

Description

De Heimanshof is a native plant and nature education garden in Hoofddorp. It presents different Dutch landscape types with their associated flora and fauna. Visit Haarlemmermeer mentions more than 700 plant species and a nature play area.

History

Until 1975 the site was the municipal nursery. When that use ended, local teachers asked whether the land could be turned into a place for nature education for primary school children. In 1980 the garden was named De Heimanshof after Eli Heimans, one of the early Dutch nature conservationists.

Nature & Design

The garden recreates landscapes of West Netherlands and other Dutch habitats, including marsh, flower-rich grasslands and fields. It also includes an orchard, herb garden, bee house, nature play area and greenhouses with world climates. Thousands of primary school pupils visit each year for nature lessons.

Visitor Information

The garden is located on the Wieger Bruinlaan in Hoofddorp. According to the Herboristengilde, De Heimanshof is open Tuesday to Friday from 09:00 to 17:00 and on Saturday from 09:00 to 15:00. In part of the season there is also Sunday afternoon opening. Dogs are not allowed.

Good to Know

* The garden is named after Eli Heimans.
* The site began as a former municipal nursery.
* Volunteers play a central role in maintaining it.
* De Heimanshof combines wild plants, education and play on one site.