Allotments 4 All

Allotment Stuff => The Basics => Topic started by: Cat on December 17, 2005, 12:36:28

Title: Where do I start?
Post by: Cat on December 17, 2005, 12:36:28

Hi everyone,

After lots of back breaking work, I have just finished preparing my soil for over wintering.  My plot was inherited from an elderly gentleman who had not been able to maintain it for over a year.

There are four marked plots.  Two were completely overgrown and I have no idea what was grown on them previously.  One contained 'old' onions and the other 'old' potatoes.

I am hoping to start growing in the Spring but just don't know where to start!  I am assuming it is not wise to grow potatoes and onions where they were previously? 

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Cat  :) 

Title: Re: Where do I start?
Post by: Derekthefox on December 17, 2005, 13:04:21

It sounds like your plot is ideal for a four part rotation system. Since you are starting from scratch, and the plot has been fallow for over a year, then it doesnt really matter where you place your various groups, although you may prefer to site things so that your onions and potatoes dont coincide with those previous beds. However, you will find it easier if you have a book to help you, I dare not suggest any particular one, but a general vegetable gardening book would be a good start, particularly with Christmas coming up...

My advice is to remember to enjoy it ...

Derekthefox :D

Title: Re: Where do I start?
Post by: Icyberjunkie on December 17, 2005, 13:41:59

I fully agree with Derek although a good to try (being brave!) is...

"Growing Vegetables" from the Royal Horticultural Society.  ISBN 0-7537-1186-9.

The garden action guide is also useful and can vbe found at:

http://www.gardenaction.co.uk/fruit_veg_diary/veg_planner.asp

Iain

Title: Re: Where do I start?
Post by: the_snail on December 21, 2005, 21:22:48

I always try to grow onions in the same spot as I did last year.

You can also do this with runner beans.

The_Snail

Title: Re: Where do I start?
Post by: Tulipa on December 21, 2005, 21:30:45

Grow Your Own Vegetables by Joy Larcom is my favourite book for vegetable growing, many other people on here recommend it too.  She has lots of advice on rotation.  Good luck!

Title: Re: Where do I start?
Post by: redimp on December 21, 2005, 23:46:06

Quote from: the_sexy_snail on December 21, 2005, 21:22:48

I always try to grow onions in the same spot as I did last year.

You can also do this with runner beans.

The_Snail

I know a lot who do this but I find not rotating what doesn't need rotating restricts the length of myb rotation so i rotate the lot - except perrenials which i find object.