We've got one!

[cotton54321]

Hi guys
We've finally got an allotment! Just wanted a bit of advice from you pros out there. It is very overgrown and needs some clearing which isn't a problem but...
The lease on these allotments runs out at the end of march 2008 and they will be moving site. Therefore I don't want to plant anything permanent but at least if I take the plot, I will be offered one on the new site and don't really want to go back on the waiting list.
I just wondered what I could realistically hope to clear by next season and how to go about it. Do I take a few square metres at a time or will the neighbours be hassling me to clear the weeds that are nearest their plots?
I would like to utilise the space but am realistic that there is only one growing season left at that site

Anyway - I'm rambling now - but any advice would be very much appreciated!

Mel

[sharonmd]

Hi Mel

Congratulations on finally getting an allotment - how long were you waiting for! I may be getting one next week (see my new post in this section) so can understand your excitement! Don't have any advice to give you yet, but maybe we can swap tips when we have any!! Good luck! Sharon

[Lesley Jay]

That is smashing news Mel. I would just clear a few square metres at a time. If you do too much in one go you will not enjoy it.

[Mrs Dobby]

Hi Mel! Congrats on the plot!! We too have just got our first plot, and have been busy clearing it of 8' of weeds, so can sympathise with the task ahead!

Our plans have been to pull out all the tall stuff and burn it, then clear the paths and repair the edging boards, and when we finish that we are going to start digging the beds over, spending lots of time removing as many roots as possible to give us an easier time with weeds next year!

With the possibility that the site may be moving next year I'd concentrate on clearing only that which you are going to use or that you feel your neighbours would want you to clear!

[Earthbabe]

Hi Mel and welcome. That sounds like good advice from Mrs D and she's in the middle of clearing etc. Good that you will now be offered a plot on the new site and hopefully you will be able to put all you learn now to good use in 2008 too.

[nick the grief]

Congratulations Mel.

Best advice if it's overgrown, ring time-team & tell them you've forund some ancient roman garden - daft buggers will be up like a shot & they'll dig it for you .

Mind you if it works can I come over as I fancy the Posh bird from Cambridge uni (Carrenza isn't it, I'm only interested in her mind though)

[dexterdoglancashire]

Congratulations Mel! Just don't work too hard and tire yourself out. Remember to enjoy yourself! It may be hard work in the beginning, but it will be all worth it next year! Do keep everyone posted on your progress! DDL