Hi all,
I was wondering if I could have some advice please. I have had a lot of experience of growing veggies, however I seem to have lost my way and, now feel totally overwhelmed by our two allotments.
A bit of background info… we took on the first plot about 4 years ago, this is our 3rd full growing season. For the first 3 years we grew veggies direct in the ground, however the site is heavy clay and, although brilliant for retaining the goodness the plants need, its not so good during the winter and the whole plot is like jelly – you sink as do planks of wood you may stand on to get to your veggies for harvesting. So, we have decided to convert plot no.1 to raised beds. It now looks awash with mud, no structure, a total mess and although almost weed free, its quiet disheartening to see especially as other plot holders used to come to us with compliments and ask us for advice.
Last year the plotholder next door to us was kicked off his plot and we were offered it as a second plot as there was no-one on the waiting list. This plot we decided to keep as a lovely fruit plot, with raised beds. We cleared half this plot last year, planting a number of fruit bushes and trees. The second half the plot is covered in black plastic to kill the grass, and keep weeds at bay, on top of this plastic are a load of pallets we collected to make the edges to our raised beds and also a dismantled greenhouse which we were given and we need to erect, we cant do this until we clear the plastic and lay the footings.
What are your suggestions how we tackle both these plots. Do we concentrate on getting the beds built this week (we are on a/l), do we concentrate on clearing the 2nd plot and getting rid of the black plastic. Also, what would you use for the base of the paths – plastic sheeting with holes pierced in it perhaps, or weed suppressant membrane or nothing? We have ample supply of free wood chippings which make excellent path material.
Lastly I am well aware that the sowing season will soon be upon us, its too early yet to so direct as the soil is a bit too damp yet and we are still getting light ground frosts. Is it too late to improve the raised beds with horse manure which is well rotted?
I’m sorry about the length of my post, but I need so much advice as to what to do next and will be very grateful for all your ideas and suggestions as to how to tackle these two plots.