[Tammie]

I have just taken over an allotment that hasn't been used for 15 years.  I thought it would be an excellent hobby..and still do!  The only problem is I am at a bit of a loss on how to get started, I must admit I look at the long grass and it is a bit daunting.  Also, the ground is quite wet..even before the rain of the past few days.  Does anyone have any useful advice on how a novice should get started.  

Tammie

PS I would REALLY like to grow at least one small crop of something this year so that I can prove to all my friends that I can do it!!

[John]

Hello Tammie

Not an unusual query -  do a search on the forums and take a look in the  Information / Allotment Articles section and you'll find loads of tips and advice.

Don't worry, you've plenty of time to get some crops in. Why not start some runner or french beans off in pots? You'll have a bit of cleared ground when they're ready to plant out.

[Ian_P]

Hi Tammie,
I took over my allotment last year on April 1st I and I was overwhelmed also.

But I managed to find some black polythene sheets which I used to cover everything I could up.

This stopped the weeds growing much, then I just rolled it back a metre or so at a time, dug it cleared it and planted what would go in.

By September I had it pretty much in order.

Good luck!