Congratulations! I’m an allotment newbie (I got my keys Nov last year) and there are lots of things I’d do differently if I were to start again, but you live and learn. My plot (a half plot) hadn’t been tended for a while and was covered in weeds and junk. If I were starting again this is what I’d do:
1) Clear away all of the junk so that you can see the bare bones of your plot. If you like the layout you’re in luck, otherwise make a plan of the layout you want.
2) Take lots of photos so you can see your progress - sometimes you need the boost as it can feel like you’re getting nowhere.
3) Get as much cardboard / black plastic as you can and cover up ALL the bed spaces as soon as possible. Lift only the bits you are going to work on, and cover again once dug over to stop weeds (unless you’re doing no dig). Don’t walk on them after you’ve dug them…oops!!!
4) Do as much of the groundwork as you can now and over winter, every time there’s a dry spell get digging! It means you can start growing something as soon as the spring comes - seeing your own plants growing is such great motivation. However, it is better to do a small bit well than the whole plot badly.
5) Be patient with seed planting in early spring, otherwise you end up with a house full of tiny seedlings and no space to grow them on
(but it’s so hard to not get over excited after winter!!!)
6) Weeds are tenacious and grow constantly - be brutal with them! Make sure you dig out as much of the roots as you can. We have thistle, docks, mares tail, bind weed and they just keep coming back which is soul-destroying. I’ve avoided spraying this year but I’m going to spray in early spring next year.
7) Chat with the other plot holders - they have so much knowledge - but be aware that everyone will give you different advise. You will find out about which invasive weeds and animal pests you need to be aware of - and it’s great to have a shared moan.
If you need manure / timber / pallets / slabs / sheds / greenhouses download the “nextdoor” app put out a friendly request for them. I was inundated with offers and got so much for free - it’s amazing what people want to get rid of. Also look on Facebook marketplace and Freecycle.
Enjoy it! It’s so lovely to be out in the open air getting exercise, growing your own produce and making new friends. Just remember, when you are eating your first homegrown new potato, that YOU DID THAT!!!