Giving up my allotment

[geoff]

I've had my allotment for four years now, and have got it into reasonable condition. This year the yield of potatoes and onions was poor as it was so dry , but now we have a lot of rain and the weeds have appeared in no uncertain manner
I work full - time, and if I spent all my spare time at the plot it would be in a good state; but that's all I would do, work at work and work at the allotment, and I have other hobbies and things to do
I like to go fellwalking and backpacking, and I also make model planes, the plastic kits, of which Airfix is the best known. And my wife has pointed out that the house hasn't been decorated for several years
There just isn't time to do everything, and as they all have to be fitted in, and against the clock it's got to the stage where I don't enjoy any of them any more; something's got to give
My last couple of diabetic reviews were very good, and I've finally made it to my bus pass. I live close to the Lake District so I've decided that while I am still fit and able, and still have good eyesight I'll concentrate on those. I'll get the last few crops off it and let the council know towards the end of autumn
The rent is certain to go up for next year, and with that and the time and effort I would have to put in it's just not worth it. I already have a customer for the shed and the tools will be going to a car boot sale; I hope to raise most of the money for a lightweight summer sleeping bag

[rustylady]

I agree an allotment can be a hell of a lot of work, specially if you have no-one to help you. If it's got to the stage where you no longer enjoy it then I think you've made the right decision in giving it up. I hope you can then relax a bit and enjoy the rest of your interests a bit more. If you enjoy growing stuff, you can always put some bits in the garden or in pots.

[Florence Fennel]

I agree with RL, Geoff. Follow your instincts and enjoy your outdoor pursuits. Good luck to you.

[seasprout]

Good Luck Geoff, grow a few tomatoes in the back garden.

[Jeanied]

Don't let the vigorous exercise drop, though Geoff - but it sounds like you have figured it all out. Sad to let an allotment go - I don't know what I'll do when I finally decide to give mine up!

[lizzylemon]

Walking and see the Lake District will be worth the sacrifice I'm sure. And who's to say that maybe in a few years when those hills seems a bit too steep, well the allotment might seem appealing again. Enjoy your time whatever you do.

[miffy]

Dear Geoff, have just made the same decision to give up my plot though for different reasons. It is not the end of the world and you are obviously very active and I am sure will keep your self very fit with all the other fantastic things you do. Best of luck with your walking.

[geoff]

Thanks for your comments. I've already sold a few odds & ends to fellow plotholders, and taken some cuttings of herbs for our garden at home
Tomorrow is my day off, and I intend taking out the rest of the potatoes
I've also taken the opportunity to clear out a lot of old camping gear and car maintenance tools, and have planned a car boot sale in a couple of weeks

[binley100]

You can always grow a few things at home in pots, sounds to me like you've made the right decision. Enjoy your walking