Your own plot
This page provides all the information you need to decide whether an allotment plot is for you, how to apply and how to make a successful start
What to Consider
Before Committing
An allotment plot is an undertaking, but it is possible to start slowly and take on more space as time and confidence allows. If you haven't had much growing experience, consider taking on a small plot and experiment for the first season, or keep the plot covered and only uncover as you cultivate each area.
Things to consider -
Location and Accessibility
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Proximity to your home for convenience
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Easy access, especially during bad weather.
Plot Size and Layout
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Assess if the plot size is manageable for your gardening plans.
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Ensure adequate sunlight exposure throughout the day.
Time Commitment
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Evaluate how much time you can dedicate to maintain the allotment weekly.
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Be prepared for seasonal planting, weeding, and harvesting tasks.
Cost
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Understand rental fees (see here) and additional outlay (e.g. compost/ raised beds if using etc)
Tools and Equipment
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You will need some basic tools to get started. The essential tools are a sturdy spade and fork for digging, a hoe for weeding, a rake for levelling soil, a hand trowel/fork for planting, and a wheelbarrow for moving materials. Protect your hands with gloves and ensure you have a watering can, twine, and secateurs for pruning
Allotment Rules and Regulations
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Familiarise yourself with the allotment rules (see here)
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Understand community guidelines for neighbourly conduct.
Legal Considerations
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Read and understand the tenancy agreement for the allotment.
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Consider insurance options for protection against damage or theft.
Accessibility and Inclusivity
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Ensure the allotment is accessible for any mobility challenges.
Water Supply
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There are existing water facilities on-site for easy irrigation. Some plots are closer to these facilities than others.
How to Apply for a Plot
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Take a look at the site map to see which plots are available to rent now. Or better still, reach out to our secretary, Rowena, to discuss your requirements.
Read our allotment tenancy guidelines here.
If you decide to relinquish your plot, we just ask that it is left tidy and covered, ready for the next tenants.
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Apply here to be assigned the plot. You will need to sign a tenancy agreement. It won't take long to have everything in place. You'll be asked for a year's membership (For fees, see here) and on receipt, the plot is yours!
Once you have joined our community, we'll send a link to a 'welcome pack' to give you all the info you need to get started.
Roll up your sleeves, and we look forward to meeting you.
Get started!
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Apply here to be assigned the plot. You will need to sign a tenancy agreement. It won't take long to have everything in place. You'll be asked for a year's membership (For fees, see here) and on receipt, the plot is yours!
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Get started!
Once you have joined our community, we'll send a link to a 'welcome pack' to give you all the info you need to get started.
Roll up your sleeves, and we look forward to meeting you.
A few other things to consider
Pest and Weed Management
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Plan strategies for managing pests and weeds effectively.
Plant Selection
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Choose plants suited to the local climate and conditions and grow vegetables you actually want to eat!
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Consider crop rotation practices for soil health.
Soil Health
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Assess soil quality to understand what is required for optimum growing conditions
Sustainability Practices
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Consider organic or sustainable gardening methods.
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Promote biodiversity by planting native species and flowers to attract pollinators
Harvesting and Sharing
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Plan for freezing and storing produce, and share excess produce with friends, family, or the community.
Physical and Emotional Benefits
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Gardening has enormous benefits for wellbeing and mental health.
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Embrace the physical activity involved in allotment work and be careful to look after your back.
Community Atmosphere
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Engage with fellow gardeners and join in with our community events & 'WAS'
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Ask experienced plot holders to share their knowledge. They’ll be delighted to!