BESSEN EN PAWPAW

Steven Holemans from ‘Bessen en Pawpaw’ in Scherpenheuvel has a passion for nature. Ever since he was a child, he has been bitten by the outdoors bug. Today, he cultivates various types of plants and fruit. The blueberries are the showpiece of the business. Steven also works with lesser-known species, such as the pawpaw, special nuts, juneberries, numerous soft fruits, and so on. He also sells a variety of edible, well-known and lesser-known potted plants. His passion remains the search for special varieties, for which his training as a herbalist, health therapist, Landwijzer student, and more, comes in very handy. He is also happy to pass on his knowledge to his clientele.

“In my nursery, I focus on edible crops. I certainly want to mention my showpiece here: American blueberries   (Vaccinium corymbosum), not forgetting the annual pick-your-own from about mid-July to September (depending on weather conditions). 

Also proud of my lovely range Pawpaws and nuts!”

Plants in the spotlight in June and September 2026

Vaccinium cylindraceum; Azorean blueberry

Very rare, low-growing shrub, belonging to the blueberry family. The blueberries are edible (juicy and sweet and tart) and have a lovely teardrop shape. The harvesting period is August–September. The fruit is rich in antioxidants, anthocyanins and vitamins, which have anti-inflammatory properties and protect the body against free radicals. The berry is an excellent source of vitamin C.

pawpaw (the magnet during trade fairs)

Pawpaw (Asimina triloba)

the ideal fruit tree

- Grows in any soil where fruit trees thrive

– robust -28 C

- long flowering period (little trouble from flowers completely damaged by night frost, so guaranteed fruit every year)

- Low susceptibility to disease (no issues with insect pests and fungal diseases)

– No problem with bird damage

-Fruit is very nutritious and contains a lot of vitamins and minerals

-Medicinal (cancer medicine, detox, lice remedy, etc.)