Just been offered a plot after a couple of years on a list. Started off number 11 then 4th then about 3 months ago first on the list. Now I have been offered one that I don't have to take up and if I don't I won't be taken off the list. The reason is there is a shed and a pidgeon loft on the plot. Been for a look (from the outside of a locked fence/gate) and it seems that the shed is still good but the loft obviously has to go as it is huge and falling down. Anyone come across a similar situation? The person in charge of the allotments did say she was trying to get some plot holders to help but it looks as if my family and friend will be bribed, coerced and pursuaded (blackmail is such a bad word
) into helping.
The good news is that it looks a big plot, is S to SW facing and although backed by trees on almost three sides it is not shaded. It is in the edge of a small semi-rural town so I am thinking it could allow bonfires for getting rid of the wooden loft.
What is your advice? Should I take the plot or wait for another one? My feeling is to take it on and get violent with the loft using something sharp or something heavy (sledge hammer) or both (heavy felling axe).
Never grown stuff before except for growing a few cacti from seed and a few herbs and chilli plants. So this will be a new experience for me. Good thing is I come from a long line of people who have been heavily into it. So I have at least one living expert in the family to assist / advise. Any suggestions for what to grow? I want to grow gooseberries but apart from that I have no restrictions. Basically I was thinking of growing stuff not commonly available or more expensive in the supermarkets. I quite fancy giving squashes a go. Spinach is also a good, easy cropping vegetable so that is in. Peas and other legumes for nitrogen fixing in rotation. See I have some of the terms down.
Anyone got any recommendations?