How Much Time do I have to Spend?

Working on your leisure garden should be a pleasure. Make sure that the plot you are taking on is of a size you can manage. Don't take on so much that it becomes a chore.

How Fit am I?

As with any form of exercise warm up your muscles first. Make your goals realistic. Pace yourself.

How do I Start?

The best way to tackle a new plot is to cultivate it as soon as possible, preferably by digging. You may have the problem of persistent weeds if the plot has not been in use for some time. You can tackle this problem in many ways:

• Spray out using a systemic weed killer such as 'Round-Up'. Take care not to damage your neighbours' plots.

• If you are unsure about using weed killers, or you want to grow organically, cut down the top growth and cover the uncultivated sections of the plot with old carpet or black plastic. Lack of light will kill the weeds.

• Dig the plot over. If you do this in the late winter the spring frosts will help by breaking down the clods.

• Once the plot is clear, plant a 'cleaning crop'. Potatoes are best, but winter greens such as Brussels sprouts will do as good a job.

• Keep the soil moving. Dig and hoe regularly. Don't give weed seeds time to establish. Regular maintenance is easy maintenance.

• Invest in a compost system. It will improve your soil by recycling nutrients.

Some Basic Things to Remember

Ask Advice

There are plenty of people on site with a wealth of experience, and most of them are happy to pass it on.

Consider Your Neighbours

Keep your plot tidy and weed-free. Keep dogs on a lead and children under control.

Number Your Plot

It makes routine maintenance of the site easier and avoids mistakes when we are spraying out vacant plots.

Be Careful with Bonfires

Only burn vegetable waste and make sure your fire is out before you leave the site.

Use Water Sparingly and Wisely

Mulch around plants to keep moisture in.

Rubbish Disposal

Don't dispose of Household rubbish on your leisure site, use the civic amenity site at Darby Close, Cheney Manor Industrial Estate.

Site Security

Don't leave the site unlocked. Be aware of strangers on the site, as vandalism and theft can cause problems and can be very upsetting.

Plot Inspections

Sites are inspected by council officers at regular intervals throughout the year. Warning notices will be issued if plots are not kept up to an acceptable standard. Notices may be issued if:

• Plots are not being fully utilised/cultivated
• Weeds are causing a nuisance to other tenants
• Any other rule is being infringed

Further Information/Contact

Swindon Allotment and Leisure Gardens Association

This organisation looks after your interests as a tenant and can supply seed and gardening materials at reduced costs.

For further information telephone Mr R Barker, Membership Secretary, on 01793 481190.

Swindon Borough Council

The Council manages the sites and deals with allotment maintenance. If you have a general query about allotments, please telephone the Parks Office on 01793 463665 or e-mail  allotmentenquiry@swindon.gov.uk