What is an allotment?
An allotment in the United Kingdom, is a small area of land, let out at a nominal yearly rent by local government or independent allotment associations, for individuals to grow their own food, or if you like; a community garden system for urban folk.
History of the allotment;
The allotment system began in the 18th century and has experienced many changes some of which can be read here;
A typical allotment;
Technically there is no such thing as 'a typical allotment' simply because; tenants generally lay out their plots and grow plants to suit their own needs and preferences, meaning that each plot can be quite unique and have its own individuality.
The following slide show depicts a typical season on the writer’s two allotments.
Where does one start?
On receipt of your plot it is advisable that you make a few notes to assist you when you come to draw up your 'layout plan'
The following list details some of the information you may require to do this;
- Measure the width and length of the plot.
- Note location of any permanent structures e.g. Trees, shrubs or buildings.
- Establish which way is North, the direction of the prevailing wind, and what areas get the most sunshine and for how long.
- Dig a few trial holes to establish the quality and depth of the topsoil.
This may also let you know what soil treatment/s you have to do prior to planting out.
Either do a pH test or send a soil sample off to a soil research laboratory to find out the general mineral/nutrition content of the existing soil.
Note; Readers with a previously cultivated garden that is new to them would be well advised to follow the same procedure and develop a plan also!
The Layout plan;
When producing the 'layout plan you should consider some or all of the following;
Compost heap, Coldframe, Greenhouse, Fruit bed, Crop beds.
Soil types;
Soil quality can play a large part in the success of your produce so knowing something about your soil type can be a big help.
The following list covers the most of the more common types found in the UK;
Chalky, Clay, Dry, Loamy, Waterlogged. (see related links)
Soil preparation;
This is probably the most important aspect of keeping an allotment so understanding the 'tricks of the trade' is essential.
The following list should go a long way to address this issue;
When to start, Cultivation, Tools, Single digging, Double digging, (see related links)
Deep digging, Soil testing, Liming, Nutrients, Fertilisers, Soil improvers, Green manure, (see related links)
Raised beds, Weeds. (see related links)
Cropping;
Once the allotment is set out and the soil is prepared it is time for the 'nitty gritty' of growing, the following list should help with this'
Planning, Planner, Rotation, Catch crops, Feeding, Watering, Mulching, (see related links)