Allotment Adventures
The month of August brings us National Allotment Week! Let's find out more about growing your own this summer.
Allotments are super popular
Did you know that there are waiting lists for allotments?
Why is that?
- Lots of people don’t have their own garden, so they rent one instead
- Growing your own is fun and good for your health
- You get fresh fruit and veg – it always tastes better when you grow it yourself!
If you know someone with an allotment you could ask to help, or create your own mini allotment in your garden.
Making your own at-home allotment
Allotments don’t have to be big. You can use any space with a raised bed. Here's how:
You'll need:
- A flat space
- Wooden boards
- Netting or a cover
- Compost
- Tools
Step by step guide
Step 1: Clear a spot
Choose somewhere with lots of sun.
Step 2: Build your frame
Ask an adult to help you measure the space and build a wooden frame.
Step 3: Fill with compost
The type will depend on what you want to grow. Peat-free compost is a good choice because it’s better for the environment.
Step 4: You’re ready to start planting
Now you can choose what you want to grow. We recommend sunflowers, pumpkins, beetroot, onions or potatoes.
My allotment checklist
Once you’ve planted your seeds, there are a few things to remember when looking after them. Here’s our handy checklist...
- Water often, especially if it’s really sunny
- Add food to your soil – it helps your plants grow
- Put netting over fruits to protect them from birds
- Do some weeding now and again
- Keep checking your plants – watching them grow every day is the best part!
