I recently got my own allotment after waiting on a list since COVID, and I'm excited to start gardening! My plot is 171m² and I've had some luck with tomatoes and a lavender border, but as a relatively new gardener, I'm looking for suggestions on what else I could grow. Any tips for what might work well for beginners?
3 Answers
When deciding what to plant, focus on what you and your family actually eat. Basics like carrots, peas, and salad leaves are a great start. I had some fun growing strawberries and herbs to add freshness to my meals. Also, consider growing things that are usually pricey in the store, like raspberries or rhubarb—they’re fun to grow and taste amazing! Just take your time and enjoy it. Gardening is all about experimenting and finding what works best for you.
You're on the right track! Stick with staples like potatoes, garlic, onions, and kale to start. These are easy and forgiving. I've also had success with sweetcorn and runner beans, plus herbs for a fresh touch. And if you have a greenhouse, tomatoes and chillies can be very rewarding too. Just be aware of pests if you're trying brassicas—they can be tricky!
Good to know! I wanted to try tomatoes in my greenhouse since I've heard they can be really rewarding.
Congrats on finally getting your allotment! Since you're still getting the hang of things, I'd suggest starting with what you enjoy eating. If you love garlic, plant a bunch! Basics like potatoes and onions are great too—they’re easy to grow and super useful in the kitchen. Once you're comfortable, you can try growing more exotic options like peppers or melons. Just remember, it’s your space, so make it what you want! Enjoy the journey!
Thank you! I’ll focus on veggies we actually eat and try to keep it simple.

That’s a great point! I’ll definitely look into some pricier fruits and veggies.