January - To Do

January and February are not the most favourable months in terms of weather conditions, the only positive following the winter solstice is the lengthening of daylight. However, as posted on Instagram ‘an allotment isn’t just for the summer’ and the colder winter months provides an opportunity for a host of activity to take place to ensure the maximum productivity throughout the year.



For those new plot holders, or those advocating and implementing a no dig method on their plot, the months represent a great time to lay a host of cardboard over the offending grass or weedy areas, and heavily compost or manure. This cuts off all the light to the affected areas, and deprived of light, the weeds become weaker, and can be gradually overcome.

For those traditional plot holders, the winter months are a good time to dig, or as Arthur used to express Double Dig the various areas, with the frost left to break up the soil.

It’s also a good time to deal with all those DIY tasks, from repairs to raised beds, compost and manure bins and any other general maintenance required.



For many there are over wintering crops, which are already in such as garlic and onions, with other vegetables such as broad beans can still be started in modules inside, hardened off and then planted out – . Shallots can be planted, which allows them to split through frost. It is also a good time to plant any fruit trees (dwarf stock on the plots). Don’t forget after planting the fruit trees to apply a thick layer of organic matter around the base and away from the main stem to help prevent weeds and assist maintain soil moisture levels in warmer months.



Currant bushes should be pruned, thinning out the very old, thin or any diseased growth and creating plenty of room for new vigorous growth. Rhubarb can be forced, and the next few weeks are a good time to dig the bean trenches and start to fill with organic matter.

The cold months are essentially a good time to plan where everything will be grown on the allotment space, together with timings for planting, whether this be starting seeds inside or direct to the plot, or order any seeds which may have been missed earlier.

Don't forget the trading hut re opens this Saturday, and presents an opportunity to pop in for a chat and buy your ‘beloved allotment warrior’ any provisions required, or a late Christmas present. (What better than a bag or two of compost to promote the growth of all that fine veg!!).

As a reminder you can also follow the exploits of Alex Horne and his plot on You Tube, and information on the Association web site where we are hoping various members are going to offer their thoughts during the year and allow us to follow their growing exploits. There is also a whiteboard in front of the cabin most weeks with a gentle hint in terms of potential tasks to be considered or completed.

Happy new growing year to all.