Have you got a new plot? Not sure what to do?
Your not alone! Many current plot holders have started out with little or no gardening knowledge or experience. They are just learned as they went along. Hopefully here we will try and give you some ideas, hints and tips of what to do next.
Some ideas
- Talk to other plot holders, what do they grow?, what problems do they have?, how did they overcome them? what top tips do they have? Allotmenters are a friendly bunch all the better once you get to know them.
- Do not be afraid to try, some things will work, some will not, that's part of the fun.
- One step at a time, most plots have taken years (literally) to look the way they do. Keep doing a small bit at a time, it all adds up. Remember one day a new plot holder will be looking at your plot and wondering how they will achieve what you have done.
- Enjoy yourself, take a break.
- See what courses or talks are available, have a look at the diary page there a some talks that are coming up in 2011 ideal or just for new plot holders in mind.
A few things to download and read.
Also make sure you read whats on the "Where to Start" page written by Tracy Norman whom is not only a very experienced plottie, she is also a qualified horticulturist. She would be too modest to tell you so l thought l would let you know, we will have more from Tracy so keep keep coming back theres more to come from her.
GAF arranged a meeting just for new plot holders back in January. We had a number of speakers, talking about growing from seed, composting, and plot design. We where able to get the speakers to share some of their experience and knowledge in the form of some documents, which are now available from the site.
Hints and tips on growing - Joyce Gibson
Composting - an exciting subject lots more information can be found on the
documents look for the section Composting Talk - 10/11/2010.
First presentation - showing the before and after pictures of a plot on the Northside of Glasgow
Second presentation - show some ideas on layout and design of a plot good ideas worth thinking about.
Dates for the diary
If you have not already visited the diary page, its a good idea to have a look on 10th July in Pollock Park there is a 'How to start an allotment' event planned. Even if cannot make the event there is a model allotment behind the stables complex well worth a visit. You can see whats growing, where its growing, and how they are growing it, then you can always visit the Highland cows, and cup of tea in the Pollock House tea room.
Also watch out for the open day dates which are going up soon, excellent chance to see other plots and find out what other plot holders are doing/growing etc.