[Only1Dionne]

Hi, I've got a new allotment which has just been rotavated.

When I dig over my plot, should I get rid of all of the clods of turf that have been left, or just leave them in the ground and cover them with manure?

I'm not sure and don't want to do it wrong!!

[DD.]

Depends what's in those clods.

If it's bindweed, couch grass, mare's tail etc, you'll find it's been chopped up for you and replanted.

You'll need to fork it out to stop it coming back 100 times worse.

[randombod]

just take it out you will find a delivery of top soil may arrive on the lott one day

[Fisherman]

Slice the turf off and stack it upside down with a bit of manure between the layers and leave it for 12 months. If anything grows on the outside edges slice it off and compost it.  Just add the rotted turf to your plot which will grow amazing crops especially spuds and brassicas.

Slicing the turf will also get you fit or at least make you ache a bit!!!

[peapod]

just take it out you will find a delivery of top soil may arrive on the lott one day

Have you got a top soil fairy? I want one! 

[randombod]

just take it out you will find a delivery of top soil may arrive on the lott one day

Have you got a top soil fairy? I want one! 

well now on certain nights under a full moon

[Only1Dionne]

Depends what's in those clods.

If it's bindweed, couch grass, mare's tail etc, you'll find it's been chopped up for you and replanted.

You'll need to fork it out to stop it coming back 100 times worse.

I think it's just grass to be honest, there's no weeds or anything else in it. My neighbour just suggested turning it over, covering with manure and covering with plastic for a few weeks to fully rot down. Somebody else suggested doing that but leaving it open so the rain washes the nutrients into the soil....which sounds like a good idea, but if that's the case, when is the right time to start covering it so it warms the soil up ready for planting? 

Oh the mysteries of allotment gardening!