THE GARDEN ESTATE was initiated by Anne and Suresh Dittrich.

We are deeply convinced that organic farming is the only sustainable way to feed the world's population. As Buddhists, parents, responsible humans we cannot be part of the destruction and poisoning that conventional farming brings to the environment.

Besides we feel challenged to bring the knowledge of organic farming methods back to the Sri Lankan people, that got lost within just one generation.

Our hearts and interest are with the most honest and basic kind of work – producing nourishing foods. Our jobs in the renewable energy sector (wind energy), which we love as well enable us to fund this project at the moment completely privately.

Whilst we live in Europe there are people on THE GARDEN ESTATE helping us to turn the bare land into an edible garden:

Nissanka is managing all affairs of THE GARDEN ESTATE with Dhamika in close contact with Suresh.

Nissanka worked as a conventional farmer in his home-town before he joined THE GARDEN ESTATE. He is keen learner and has undertaken this challenging task of converting the farm to an organic orchid while making the farm financially independent. 

Suresh's parents live in the farm with Nissanka, Dhamika and Silavathie. Silavathie is in-charge in the kitchen and cooks lovely Sri Lankan curries. The family leeds a very basic lifestyle.

We are surrounded by friends and family around the world, who follow our vision, share the same values as well as support and encourage us with ideas, practical help and advice.

THE GARDEN ESTATE still has a long way to go, so we are more than happy about any possible support – be it advice, funding or helping hands for example as a WWOOFer.   Please get in touch!