Allotments make a comeback

Once considered the preserve of granddads, allotments are now emerging as a modern way to improve health and well being, as more people recognise the value of fresh produce and fresh air.

Accessible for city dwellers and a hive of activity for communities, allotments are also attracting families keen to keep their children healthy and help the environment, according to Gardening Which?

Allotments are under threat in some areas from road schemes, developers and, in one particular case, plans for the 2012 Olympic Games. But often plot-holders and local communities have been successful in saving areas or reaching a workable compromise.

Local councils, with the support of the Allotment Regeneration Initiative (ARI), are working to improve allotments – Edinburgh has already opened new sites and Sheffield plans to.

Allotments are ideal places to grow many of the vegetables, herbs and fruit available in supermarkets; even exotic crops from across the world.

To get the best out of an allotment, Gardening Which? gives the low-down on what to look out for:

Fertile, well-worked soil is a real help - some sites are now organic
Convenient water, such as a handy water tank, as hose-pipes are not always permitted
Good security is an advantage as vandalism and theft can be a problem on some sites
Access for compost deliveries is helpful and some sites will organise this on behalf of members
Some sites have the benefits of a club hut, sheds for individual plots, and tarmac access roads
Julia Boulton, editor, Gardening Which?, said: “Wherever you live, allotments are a great way to grow your own vegetables, enjoy the great outdoors, and get families involved in gardening.”

“Interest in allotments is booming – not surprising when they only cost a few pounds a year so grab yourself a bargain while you can!”

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