Having acquired the farm in 2000 – neglected for 24 years – the initial intention of the new owners was to clean and restore the premises – but fate had other ideas!
The Soekershof concept came about within a week of happy discoveries and fascinating local folklore…

First of all Soekershof is the ‘breeding place’ of the South African cactus trade. The farm is the ‘ancestor’ of all cactus nurseries in South Africa including the nursery next door. In one of the succulent gardens of Soekershof visitors can admire the oldest cactus of South Africa (Anno 1910) opposite the graves of cactus pioneer Marthinus Malherbe and his wife Molly Darling.

The original succulent garden has been restored and extended to the point where the garden today comprises in excess of 2 400 varying succulents, including cacti and other exotics that are uniquely kept in the unprotected open air.  Here visitors can explore a wholly intriguing world of camouflage, self-defence mechanisms and survival strategies! The American Horticultural Society reviewed this garden last year as “one of the finest specimen gardens in the Southern Hemisphere”.  The Visitor’s Centre houses, among various delights, exclusive handcrafted gifts by local artists.  Full Moon Walks, Corporate Teambuilding, tea and light snacks complete the experience.

The Soekershof nursery distinguishes itself from other specialist nurseries by providing visitors with sufficient customised cultivation information in line with local environmental conditions.  Water-wise plants are sold, with a landscaping consulting service on offer.