Improving the soil of my new alotment?
Last post 28-10-2009 3:54 PM by Obelix. 2 replies.
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24/10/2009 08:27 AM
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- EvaInNL
- Holland
- 25 Sep 2009
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61
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Hello again,
In about 2 weeks time I will finally get my hands on my alotment! It's my first one and apart from armchair gardening (tv / online) and helping my mum every now and then I'm a complete gardening novice. My plot will be cleared, cultivated and generally will be handed over to me with a big ribbon on it, I know I'm very lucky with all the prep-work the landowner is putting into it for me! I'm just wondering if there s more I could do at this time of year to help improve the soil for spring next year.
This year all that was on the plot were different types of lettuce. The soil itself is amazing, great ph, loose, by the looks of my neighbours plots very nutrient rich, well drained. Should I just leave it as is for now and see what happens next year to the crops?
As I mentioned I'm new to all this and could do with some advice!
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27/10/2009 12:55 PM
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- EvaInNL
- Holland
- 25 Sep 2009
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61
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Never mind! I've just found out that there's a municipal compost scheme in my town where i can get compost for free! and i'm checking the RHS planting advice for which types of soils the plants/trees/shrubs need.
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28/10/2009 03:54 PM
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- Obelix
- Belgium
- 24 Nov 2004
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378
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If you haven't already got a copy, try and buy something like Hessayon's book on veg and herbs as it explains crop rotations. Some veggies benefit from having the soil improved with compost or manure before planting and fro some, such as carrots and parsnips it should be avoided as it encourages forking.
In other words, divide you plot into 3 or better still 4 separate planting areas and rotate crops and soil conditioning to suit. If you can get some compost now, spread it thickly on at least one bed and then, if you can, cover with black plastic. The worms will work it in for you over winter and the soil will be warmer next spring so you get a head start.
You might also want to consider digging a trench where you will grow beans and start filling that with compostable matter from the kitchen and allotment as, when filled and then covered with a layer of soil next spring, it will provide a moisture retentive, nutrient rich home for better crops next summer.
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