Help for a Newbie

[MonsterMum]

Hi all,

I want to get an allotment to grow fruit and veg for my young family but I'm completely new to this and I don't really know where to start!

I have contacted my local council about getting an allotment so that's covered, but I don't really know what to do if I do get one.

All advice would be greatly appreciated!

[MonsterMum]

[adrianhumph]

Hi baby,
              Well you have got of to a good start by finding this site,  ;D please ask as many questions as poss, as there are a host of experts  ::)  here who will be only too pleased to help you.
First step must be to get to your library & read up as much as you can, there are plenty of good books with beginners info in. Good authors  to look for include, Bob Flowerdew, Dr Hessayason, Geoff Hamilton, really the list is endless.
If you are lucky too get a plot quickly, (some sites have LONG waiting lists) start slowly & take your time, you will not get everything done in a day. If you meet other plot holders don`t be afraid to approach them & ask about the soil, what grows well & what doesn`t, they may have years of experience, & usually are happy to pass it on.
Well thats a start , i`m sure others will chip in with sound advice, good luck with your endeavours.

                          Adrian.

[Trixiebelle]

Hi Baby!

There's loads of advice on here but I've just got 'The Allotment Book' (link below) which is ideal for beginners.

Good luck with your plot and welcome to our world  ;D

http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/000720759X/qid=1145023591/sr=2-1/ref=sr_2_3_1/202-7539750-2007860

[timnsal]

Hi baby :)

I've had an allotment for a whole week, and been on this site for about the same time. Dug a bit, cleared a load of weeds and asked a couple of questions - so far.

The people here have been friendly and helpful. I haven't met many people on the allotments yet, but those I have all seem pleasant too.

When I first went there, I stood and looked at the plot for ages wondering where to start ??? It's very satisfying once you get your first little patch of soil clear, though.

I think there are quite a few of us here who are new to all this.

Sally

[John_H]

Also, press the button marked 'Wiki' at the top of this page,

then click on the words 'methods of cultivation'

Then on the words 'clearing a new plot'

Good luck with the new plot

[MonsterMum]

Hi,

Thanks for all the info

If I click on Wiki it just brings up a blank page?

[lorna]

Welcome to A4A baby. Great crowd on here. Lots of advise and laughs along the way. Good luck when you get your allotment
Lorna

[MrsKP]

Welcome baby. I've just succumbed to buying The Allotment Book which I'm sure will be a terrific read and provide loads of helpful info, but nothing can replace this site for the laughs and the lovely people you'll find here.

Good luck.

[supersprout]

nothing can replace this site for the laughs and the lovely people you'll find here.

Couldn't put it better MrsKP. I have a wall full of veggie gardening books, but have learned more nitty gritty practical stuff - and had more serious fun - in six short months with the people on this forum  :D

[bupster]

Once you get the plot, stare in horror at it for a while. Then panic. Once you've got that over with, you can work out what to do with it :D

Keep repeating 'long-term project, long-term project'.

Plant something, anything, quick as you can. Then you can start the hard work  :)

[Jokerman]

my advice is to get stuck in  and enjoy it!!!   ;D