My Guide to October at the Allotment

Well, autumn has certainly settled into Derbyshire! I was hoping for a few more BBQs, but I think it’s time to hang up my tongs for the year and accept my rain poncho as part of my daily outfit! At the plot, summer crops are ending, but there’s still plenty of work to be done…

Writing for The Derbyshire Times Again

It’s taken many fits and starts but I think I’m back on track and becoming more organised, I have been writing my column for The Derbyshire Times again! Writing has always been a passion of mine, especially when it allows me to combine my love for a the allotment and and speaking realistically about mental…

National Allotments Week 2024: Celebrating Biodiversity

This year, National Allotments Week (12th – 18th of August) is all about biodiversity—celebrating our allotments’ rich variety of life. Allotments aren’t just for growing vegetables; they’re vital havens for wildlife, supporting pollinators, insects, and other creatures contributing to a healthy ecosystem. I’m excited to join in this celebration by highlighting how our plots contribute…

The Digging the Earth Guide to August

I don’t know about you, but I have a tendency to ‘slack off’ with my sowing once summer hits, leaving me with a sparse vegetable patch come the Autumn months. As I begin to harvest my beetroot, spinach, and kohl rabi, some empty spots of ground are appearing in my garden vegetable beds. In my…

Finding the Fruit Bushes!

I managed another couple of hours at the plot this morning. Armed with my trusty strimmer, I tackled some overgrown areas (there were lots to choose from). As usual, some patches proved particularly stubborn, with thick weeds and nettles that required the extra muscle of my pruning shears! It’s hard work, but I can see…

overgrown allotment pathway

Overgrown and Wild!

The first steps will be to tackle the overgrowth and bring the allotment back to its former glory, or maybe even better than before! I’ll share the ups and downs, the progress, and the joy of reclaiming the plot.