David Lifton

Preparation work on the plot is done, but there’s a new opportunity to get growing for David...

With a new season comes a new beginning on the allotment plot. i finally feel as though i have my plot in order. Using the no-dig method and spreading my mulches of compost six inches thick, the bindweed and couch grass won’t persist half as much as they have done. the paths between the beds are also mulched and, aside from a few garden features next year, there is only weeding to do. Yet, as one plot falls into place, other opportunities emerge. i’m proud to announce that i’m working on a new community plot for our allotment site. i’m very passionate about getting more people of all ages into gardening and now i’ve been given the space to do this. the part of growing your own food that resonates the most with me is that you can avoid the supermarkets and eat vegetables at their freshest. this is something i’ll be keen to get across on the new plot. What’s more, i will have the opportunity to grow a host of heritage and unusual edibles. through showcasing the wealth of varieties available, i hope to inspire both gardeners and newcomers alike. As the spot hasn’t been used all year, it needs a good deal of improvement. Once again practising my no-dig method here, i’m layering more of the compost recently delivered over both annual and perennial weeds. By keeping it thick, the weeds will be starved of light and the soil will be nicely fed. in turn, what this means is that, bizarrely for me, i’m already ahead of the game. the soil is mulched and come March, it’ll be ready to grow into. What many don’t realise is that the vital groundwork for growing food should happen in these quieter months. And the job is made even easier with no-dig gardening. As i’m ahead of the game, i can now place my focus onto the plants and, indeed, the seeds i’m gathering for 2019. Undercover space is a godsend for any gardener, and i’m fortunate enough to have access to a polytunnel now. this will allow me to extend the growing season, helping along my early broad beans, peas, radishes and even carrots. Whatever resources you have, take advantage of them this early. You’ll thank yourself when the growing season begins.