new gardener

[chrissie07]

Hello, I have just been offered an allotment with my local council. Went to look at the plot and it has weeds at least 3ft high and I don't know where to start. Is there anyone who can give me advice on how to start, and is it possible to plant anything this time of year

[Snadger]

First of all congratulations on getting your allotment!

If it's as bad as you say, strim it down to 6", (leave a bit of greenery) first and rake everything up into a pile where you intend having your compost bins (which are a must!)

Once that's done you have two options:-

Weedkill the whole plot with glyphosate. The weeds need to be actively growing, which they are, to absorb the weedkiller(hence the 6" of greenery left after strimming) weedkill again after a fortnight to get the bits you missed,then dig or rotovate plot.

or:-

If you don't like the idea of weedkillers and you have a strong back, start digging, a bit at a time. Dig a bit, plant a bit, to relieve the boredom and make it seem like your'e getting somewhere. Some people cover the areas they haven't dug with various mulches to supress the weeds as well.

Mulches and what can be planted now are a big question but have a look through the vine threads and I'm sure you'll find loads of useful information!

Most of all ENJOY!!!!

[Sue]

Hi
Chrissie, and welcome to the vine
A new allotment, how exciting and weeds 3ft tall, we've been there and some of us, ie me for example are still a bit weedy, 2 years later.
I wish I'd known when I started but have become a great fan of the cardboard mulch so save every scrap of cardboard I can get to cover the weedy bits.
Still time to get a small bit dug over for things like garlic and you could get some suitable brassica plants from garden centres to plant now. And of course if you're planning on growing fruit (and you must!) now is an ideal time to plan and get orders in for bare-rooted stock.
And autumn and winter are a great time for planning what you're going to grow and buying your seeds.
And do plan on having a bit of your allotment space for relaxing in
Have fun and look after your back.
best wishes
Sue