Young eager beginner!

[nowseeker]

Hi All

After failing to get an allotment (waiting lists) I have been offered by a friends grandparents to take over their vegetable patch, stroke of luck or what!

It has not been worked for some time as they found it too much as they got older.

I have never done anything like this before so wanted to talk through my plans to see if I have the right idea.

I intend to keep the plot small to start with, as I don’t now how much work this will take up and how much I will take to it. I’ve found a plan for a 6 x 1.2 m plot broken up into 5 sections, 4 for rotation and one for all year round planting.

I’m thinking

Section 1: Potatoes

Section 2: Carrots and Beetroot

Section 3: French Beans and Onions

Section 4: Sprouts and Brocoli

Permanent section: Herbs (not sure which ones, so suggestions gratefully received) If not herbs then maybe sweetcorn and lettuces.

My plan is to clear the ground of all weeds etc, and then double dig the area over. I will then make a gravel path along the edge of the plot (not in middle as only 1m wide).

I will measure out sections and then plot with string.

Once that is done I will begin planting/sowing with seeds that I guess I buy from a garden centre.

Couple of questions:

• Have I missed anything?
• How often will I need to water the patch?
• Once planting is done I understand that I will need to weed regularly, but other than this what do I need to do on a regular basis?
• How much time per week do you think a plot this size will take?

[Bec]

Begin at the beginning. As you are doing your double digging, apply some compost or worm castings to the soil. The very best thing you can give your plot is worm castings or worm casting tea as you water. If you give your plot soil a good beginning, it will be less labor in the long run. If you can, make your own compost using a compost tumbler-takes up little space, far less labor and far quicker than a pile or bin. You can also put boards around the plot to make a raised bed and divide the beds. For such a small plot, raise as many veggies on trellises that you can. It will make your garden more attractive. Combine flowers with veggies as companion plants to aide against pests. Use the French Intensive method of gardening in beds for easier gardening. Do not walk on the soil you grow in. And mulch after your seedlings have sprouted to conserve moisture. You ask about work? Gardening is not work (even if you sweat while doing it). Gardening is:helping the earth replenish itself; therapy after working in an office,etc; having faith in the future that you will be harvesting the best food you ever tasted (provided you give your plants worm tea!).

[Primrose]

I love eager beginners. I have had my veg garden for almost 7 years and still feel eager and a beginner. My elderly neighbour who was a really good gardener gave me loads of hints and tips - really helpful.
I have failures but the successes make up for them.
My only problem is that I don't seem to be able to grow carrots - but I keep trying !!!!