The reality of having an allotment is that it involves a lot of hard work, but it is also very rewarding.
Allotment Rules
Ramsgate Town Council has allotment rules which plot holders should abide by. They let plot holders know what they can and can't do e.g. size of sheds and greenhouses, what materials can or can't be used etc.
Cultivation Times / Non-Cultivation
The rules require all plots to be cultivated within one month between March to September and two months between October to February. Plots must not be left dormant and untended.
Time Commitment
Having an allotment is very time consuming and new plot holders should be realistic when choosing a half or quarter plot. It is a year-round commitment. The best books for beginners advise what needs to be done monthly, when to sow seeds, what pests to look out for and how to deal with them. They also explain how and when to harvest produce etc.
On-going Costs
There are always costs when having an allotment, especially at first. Common expenses include:
- Paying for the plot
- Shed or tool store
- Greenhouse (not glass)
- Seeds
- Tools and equipment
- Compost
- Water butts, watering cans, hose pipes, pots, seed trays, labels and canes etc.
Community
The community aspect is brilliant. Sites have a wide diversity of plot holders. Most plot holders get to know their neighbours very well. It is always interesting to see how others create and manage their plots.
Produce / Sharing
Nearly all plot holders grow excess produce, but it is often shared, especially with new plot holders; it hopefully encourages them to continue with the cultivation on their own plot.
Wildlife
There is a wide variety of wildlife on allotment sites including insects, hedgehogs, shrews, grass snakes, frogs, toads, foxes and a lot of different birds. Some sites have bird boxes and are visited at dusk by small bats. There will also likely be rats and mice.
Noticeboards / Facebook Group
Most sites have noticeboards and closed Facebook groups for the specific site only. These are very good information tools. If a plot holder is going on holiday and needs someone to water their plants, they can ask on Facebook. It is a good way to share information, post allotment related items to sell or give away, exchange recipes, tips and answer questions.
Learning and Researching about Growing
Having an allotment broadens your knowledge and skills; new seeds and plants are always being made available so it's good to investigate them.
Seeing Plot Holders Inspired and Achieving
It is rewarding to see plot holders tending to their plots in Spring, sowing seeds and planting, then seeing the plots coming to life again and produce being harvested. There is nothing like allotment vegetables. The taste is much nicer, and you know what you are eating.