Allotments frequently asked questions
What are the benefits of having an allotment?
You might like an allotment for the regular light
exercise, for fresh fruit and vegetables, for the enjoyment of
wildlife or to unwind from the stresses of modern life.
Do I need to be a gardening expert?
All the help you need is available from books, gardening
magazines and local horticultural societies.
How committed do I need to be?
An allotment is a regular commitment, at least from spring to
autumn. Be prepared to visit it most weeks and several times a week
in summer. Over holiday periods you can ask a fellow plot-holder to
do some watering for you.
What do I need?
You will need a few tools – fork, hoe, trowel, watering can -
and some clothes that you don't mind getting dirty.
When should I start?
At any time. Rents are paid in October and this is
a good time to start preparing the plot. Planting gets underway in
April and May, so if you start around then you may be able to
cultivate only part of your plot in the first year, but you can use
the time to improve the uncultivated soil.