Getting started
Everything you need to know on how to get a plot, then how to get growing.
First things first
You are interested in getting an allotment, and why not? First things first send us an email and get yourself on the waiting list. You can’t get on it soon enough as at present we have waiting lists at all of our seven allotment sites in Tonbridge. You will be allocated to a site nearest to where you live when a plot becomes available.
To get a plot to a good standard and depending on size of plot, you’ll usually need at least two sessions of three or more hours per week particularly during the busy Spring and Summer months.
Welcome to your plot
What do you do now? Your site manager will make contact and arrange to show you the available plot. If you are happy to take it, a licence will be created for you to sign agreeing to the TAGA terms. Upon signing you will meet up with your site manager who will hand over your keys and answer any questions you may have. Here are a few pointers for you that might be helpful:
1.Please be polite
Unfortunately it needs saying. Absolutely most people are enthusiastic and looking forward to getting started on their plots and eager to learn. So just to clarify, your site manager is only trying to help you get the best from your tenancy so you have a productive and enjoyable time.
2. Follow the rules
The License agreement you will sign is our guide to what you can and can’t do as a TAGA tenant. You will get your License agreement once you have paid your yearly fee. Have a read and then you will understand what is required for everything to run smoothly.
Lets Get started
Get ready, get set, go! You have your plot and if one is available a shed too! Well, what now?
1. Getting your plot cleared
It is very likely your plot will be in need of a big tidy up.
2. Layout
Before you start your site manager may well mark out your plot to help define the edges. You can then think about how you want to divide up the space and where perhaps it would be useful to have paths or raised beds. It’s a good opportunity to see what other plot holders have done and what could work for you.
2. Digging
Your plot is probably going to need a good dig. It’s a good opportunity to get to know your soil and discover any good plants you may have inherited from the previous tenant. You want to get out any perennial weeds like dandelions, bind weed and grasses.
Be friendly and polite
The site managers are here to help. The tenants are a friendly lot and have loads of knowledge so they are well worth getting to know .After all everyone started at some point.
Exercise, relaxation, friendship and delicious fun
What will you make of your allotment?
Tentants Expectations
- On receiving an allotment tenants should take into account that an allotment is on a yearly basis and the tenant will be asked to sign a Licence at the commencement and pay the appropriate rent.
- That a minimum guideline of 6 hours per week is required if you have a 10 rod plot but less time if the plot is 5 rods or thereabouts to keep the plot up to the standard expected by the Association. If this is not possible due to other commitments, new tenants should consider not taking on a plot at that time as they will be asked to leave if they fail to keep the plot clean and free from weeds.
- Although this is a hobby it should be taken seriously as if plots are not kept up to standard the weeds affect other tenants which is grossly unfair and causes those tenants extra work.
- The sites are run by volunteers and should any allotment holder wish to volunteer for such a position please enquire to the appropriate site manager.
- Should a tenant resign or vacate for whatever reason before the end of the year, it is the practice of the Association that they will not refund any rent only on very special occasions. The tenants will be required to remove any items placed on that plot.
Ah the joys!!
From strawberries to sweet corn – plots more juicy than any murder mystery you will ever enjoy. Well worth getting off the sofa for!
