Having your own allotment is fantastic for urban residents, and those that don’t have space for vegetable growing in their own garden. Allotments give gardeners immense satisfaction in being able to grow, nurture and eat crops they’ve grown. It’s also a great way to get you on your way to becoming a self-sustaining part of the community, not to mention the amount of fun it is to simply have an allotment to spend time in.
Here’s our advice and allotment planning tips for budding gardeners here in the UK.
However, owning your own allotment isn’t a walk in the park by any means. It requires commitment, involvement and forward planning. To get the most out of your allotment, have a read of the following tips and keep them handy for when you decide to get going with yours.
Applying for an Allotment
Initially you’ll have to apply to get your first allotment. Unfortunately this can take time, as waiting lists are usually long, especially for those living in London and built up areas. To get started, contact your local authority to be put on the waiting list; including your Parish, Town, City or District Council.
Alternatively you can apply for your allotment here via the Government’s online submission form. This will either allocate you a plot of land, or add you to a waiting list – either way it’s the best way to get started.
First Things First – Clean Your Plot
So you’ve been allocated your first allotment, and chances are it’s not in top condition for growing your own vegetables, plants and crops. First port of call would be to get the elbow grease out and clear your plot of any existing plants, pots, rubbish and soil.
Before you can start growing anything you need to ensure your plot’s soil is in absolutely top condition. This is a key step, as once you start planting it’s very difficult to get back to square 1 without any major repercussions.
A little online research will help you find out enough information on what type of soil you need to grow your desired crop. Alternatively visiting your local garden centre or speaking with a landscape supplier like Bury Hill Landscape Supplies Ltd will give you a step in the right direction.
For more information take a look at our high quality range of contract and premium topsoils for sale.
Once you know what and how much topsoil you need to order, dig out the existing soil whilst removing any weeds and unnecessary remains. Turn it over carefully and diligently – don’t take any shortcuts. Doing this will help you tremendously when it comes to the results of your allotment.
Grow Unique Vegetables
Many organic vegetables are grown en mass, and are readily available in the United Kingdom. We’re talking dietary staples such as carrots, lettuce leaves, onions and potatoes. A delivered veggie box may be more than enough to get your weekly dose of these base items.
What can really set your allotment apart is growing those unique veggies you won’t find in your average supermarket or even the nearest organic farm. Black potatoes, Italian onions, and purple carrots are examples of vegetable that are just a little harder to find.
Of course it comes down to personal preference, but a little originality goes a long way – plus it’s fun and impressive for when hosting dinner parties.
Know Your Seasons
Most crops and plants follow a strict schedule for when they should be planted throughout the year. In the United Kingdom you can’t expect to grow whatever you want throughout the year, no matter the weather or soil conditions.
The fact is that nature follows a firm calendar. Understanding and getting to know it will help you tremendously.
For example, April is the month where those nasty pests tend to start giving problems. May is a little dry, meaning that you have to invest in watering your allotment on a regular basis. June is best for the so-called ‘tender’ veg, while October is ideal for broad beans and garlic. Knowing your seasons inside and out will allow you to maximise your garden’s options.
Draw and Measure (aka Planning)
This one is particularly important, especially as most allotments are fairly limited on space. It’s critical that you’re aware of just how much space you have available and whether your grand plans of growing every vegetable known to man is actually feasible.
Make plans, draw up blueprints if necessary and take it slow. Nightmare situation would involve buying all your pots, seeds and soils before you’ve been to measure up your allotment. Know its limitations and use smart planning to make the most of what you’ve got to work with.
Be Realistic with your Targets
Many would-be organic farmers completely overestimate how much time they’ll have to spend on their newfound allotment toy. While it may seem exciting to spend every day after work tending to your garden, it gets old rather quickly if you’re not careful.
While it’s certainly a fun and fulfilling thing to invest in, it also requires quite a bit of time. Don’t get over-excited and commit more than you can handle. Be realistic with your goals and you’ll get the most out of your allotment.
So there you have it, hopefully you’re feeling inspired and confident to go out there, reserve your allotment and start growing! For more information on landscape and gardening supplies feel free to contact us on 01306 877540 or visit our website.