Colin wrote ...
I have heard from a family friend that their are 2 allotment spaces
that I might be able to have (have been on the list since last October)
one of them is next to her's and she has said I could share her shed
Also if I could get that one I would have help and support on tap

Fingers crossed
I'm actually getting very excited about it and if it happens soon I'll
have a chance of getting some crops in this year
Although apparently the plot needs a bit of clearing/digging


Welcome to the world of the allotment, a very rewarding pastime even if it
is hard work (or perhaps because it is).
Don't rush into planting things, take your time and get your plot right
first, it will pay dividends in the end.
Clear off the rubbish and get rid of it down the Council dump.
Build a solid compost bin or two for all the weeds you will pull up later.
Check for perennial weeds (bindweed, couch, thistles etc) and deal with
those using weedkiller, it may take more than one application. This is most
important, failure to do this will cause constant problems/work.
Strim off the other "normal" weeds, rake up and compost.
Dig it all, have a bucket beside you and take out any big
stones/glass/plastic etc. taking care to look for perennial weed roots as
you go. You can make paths with the stones but the rest are best taken home
for the dustbin.
Rake it level as you dig so as not to keep treading on the soil.
Mark it into 4 sections for the 4 year rotation (or 5 for 5 year or 3 for 3
year) using solid wood or metal stakes.
(1. Spuds. 2. Cabbages etc. 3. Peas/beans. 4. Onions+ carrots and odds and
sods... is our rotation)

Now you can think about some plants for this season. :-)

Don't forget next season starts with the Garlic which goes in in Sept/Oct.

Get a good weed hoe, it will be your most used tool ( Wolf Garden, the
smaller push pull weeder)
--
Regards
Bob Hobden
17mls W. of London.UK