I'm just starting with my allotment and I'm completely lost on what to grow. I've got raised beds and plant pots for my gardening, and I'm particularly interested in growing potatoes, onions, garlic, and chillies. However, I have no gardening experience at all. Could anyone offer some tips or suggestions for a complete newbie?
3 Answers
Welcome to the gardening world! Since it's a bit late in the year, especially for chillies, you might want to focus on tidying up your plot and prepping for next season. Grab some discounted flower seeds from stores, start them in pots with compost, and observe what thrives before the frost hits. For now, just get familiar with your allotment—check for any existing plants and clear the weeds. Also, consider watching some gardening shows or listening to podcasts for tips!
A good strategy is to grow what you enjoy eating, particularly items that are expensive to buy. I grew things like raspberries, tomatoes, and squash in the past, which worked well. Pay attention to your specific climate and soil conditions. If you haven't planted already, garlic and broad beans can go in the ground soon. Also, don't hesitate to take risks with new veggies!
YouTube is a treasure trove for beginner gardeners! Channels like Charles Dowding and Huw Richards offer loads of practical advice tailored to various climates. It's really helpful to learn from diverse sources instead of just relying on traditional gardening wisdom, which may be outdated. For instance, you can plant garlic in October, but most of the big projects will be for next year, so you're in an ideal spot to prepare now.
Absolutely! I'd also recommend reading up on companion planting to make the most out of your crops. It's a game changer!