Day 0: Choosing my allotment plot

I applied for the half plot allotment in 2020 during Covid-19 lockdown, as did many people I imagine. At the time we (my husband, puppy and I) lived in a two bedroom flat in the centre of Brighton and we were aching for more outdoor space and somewhere we could calmly spend time in nature, around plants, and have a hobby outdoors.

Five years on and we are living in a terrace house just outside the centre of Brighton, we have two young children, and we still have our little dog. Currently I am on maternity leave and due to go back to work in three months’ time so when the allotment site manager contacted me last week to ask if I still wanted the half plot my heart beamed with joy and excitement. Then I remembered that I’ve got many a responsibility already demanding my care and attention… but what’s one more, hey?!

Two days later I visited for the first time to choose my half-plot, there were two to choose from. The first was slightly closer to the entrance, smaller, with no real character to it, but it is relatively flat with a tap next-door. The other is further into the site but a lot bigger, on an incline, with an apple tree, a nice view, some bits and bobs left over from the previous owner, and conveniently located next to the site manager's patch (who I am hoping I can glean some growers' wisdom from over the years to come!). The choice was an obvious one for me - I went with the one with lovely apple tree and gorgeous view across Brighton. You can even see the sea on a clear day!

West facing view of allotment

Here are some tips and advice I plan on following in the next couple of weeks while I settle into the new plot.

• Plan the plot: Before I start planting, I'm going to take some time to plan out my allotment plot. Considering the layout, what vegetables and herbs I want to grow, and how much space each plant will need. Planning ahead will help make the most of my space and ensure a successful harvest.

• Start small: I am tempted to try and do too much at once, but starting small is the best way to learn and avoid feeling overwhelmed. I'm going to begin with a few easy-to-grow vegetables and herbs, such as some flowers, lettuce varieties and herbs. As I gain experience, I'll gradually expand to add more.

• Prepare the soil: Good soil is essential for a successful allotment garden. Before I start planting, I'll take the time to prepare the soil by adding compost or well-rotted manure. This will provide essential nutrients for the plants and help improve soil structure.

• Keep up with maintenance: From all I've read, regular maintenance is key to a healthy allotment garden. This includes watering, weeding, and monitoring for pests and diseases.

• Learn from others: One of my main aims with the allotment is to meet others and share experiences with them. The community aspect of the allotment is core to doing this for me. Community gardens or local gardening groups can also be great resources for beginner gardeners like myself.

• Enjoy the process: Most importantly, I want to enjoy the process of allotment gardening. I want it to be a relaxing and rewarding hobby where I can connect with nature and enjoy the fruits of my labor.

So this is the start of a fruitful and fun experience that I’ve long hoped for: an allotment to call my own where I will not only grow fruit, vegetables, herbs and flowers, but also cultivate a sense of community with other growers.