Green Gardening & Eco Allotments

I’m beginning to think that Spring may have sprung up up North, and it’s not just because the sun has started to shine. This week is a great week in my household, because after 4 years of waiting (4 YEARS!!!), we have eventually been awarded our very own allotment, and at last I can start flexing my green fingers.

It may not be all that much to look at straight away, but with some careful planning and a certain amount of hard digging (cue my husband!), this little patch of land is going to burst into life. It’s time for a confession though – Although I’ve been an avid gardener for quite a while now, I’m an entirely amateur allotment-eer…

It may be my first foray into ‘serious’ growing, but the idea of ‘growing your own’ has always appealed. The number of food miles that the average supermarket vegetable racks up is quite alarming – even if your carrots and potatoes have been grown in the UK, the chances are they’ve spent a fair number of hours on the road before they even think about getting anywhere near your shopping basket. It may be a bit of a cliché, but I want to become a little bit more like ‘The Good Life’… I may even have to invest in a pair of denim dungarees!

FSC certified spade

Before getting ahead of myself, I need to get myself kitted out with the tools of the trade. With a good set of gardening tools I hoping I can’t fail. With my spade in hand, organic compost at my side, and a whole wealth of good intentions, sprouts, carrots, brocoli, peas and lettuce will surely follow!

Still… I’m feeling a little nervous… I’d love some helpful advice. If you’re an experienced allotment fan, please pass on your tips! What should I plant first? What needs the sunshine and what flourishes in the shade?

Organic Potato Planter

If you don’t have an allotment or you’re one of the unfortunate souls still on a waiting list, never fear. You can still get growing your own grub – the organic patio potato planter is unmissable if you don’t want to get your hands too dirty. If you fancy a whole array of locally grown fresh fruit and veg there is yet another option.  Organic fruit and vegetable boxes are unbeatable if you’re a fan of seasonal, local fayre.

Allotment Image thanks to Google Maps.