How much time does an allotment need?

[Ashaman42]

Currently on the waiting list for an allotment and it sounds like I might get an offer of a plot next spring with any luck.

Was just wondering how much time it will need. Obviously the more time I can spend there the better but would 2 evenings a week and a day/halfday at the weekend let me get a reasonable amount done?

I would try to fit more time in now and then but what with working full time, flying r/c planes, cycling, weight-lifting, programming and some Open University work there is only so much time in a day.

I understand that I'd be fighting a battle re watering, weeding and slug catching but could I expect to keep the site ticking over on the above time or am I being unrealistic?

[Two_Sheds]

The answer is as much time as you can give it

I'm slacking this year at about 4hrs twice a week ... it's been a difficult spring (hot & very dry). When I'm not watering, I'm weeding

[Nicos]

I'd say about 7 hrs per week once it's up and running.
Once you've got it there- then you can plan on growing less demanding crops/mulch/construct watering systems.....call a friend re watering alternate days......absolute min for a whole plot would be 4-7 hrs once established!!

[WendyC]

Obviously depends on the size of the plot. Mine is 2.5 rods and takes me 4-5 hours a week. I would say that regular maintenance is better than a day a fortnight say. Good luck and I hope your wait isn't too long.

[Ashaman42]

Thanks for the quick replies.

Sounds like it might be doable then, should be able to get there three times a week even if not for very long. As long as I make efficient use of my time should be able to get something done.

[Hans Mum]

how longs a piece of string???? at first it depends what state its in when you get it but once youve got it into shape I would say a minimum of 8 hours per week but I spend a lot more time than that because its my main hobby and I LOVE it

[Aberdeenplotter]

If you cannot truly find the time, it's really unfair on yourself and your plot neighbours to take a plot on so think carefully before committing yourself. Nothing worse than finding yourself over your head with weeds and not being able to cope. Having said that, once you get the plot into a manageable state after the first flush of spring weeds, it becomes easier. I have three half plots and spend at least an hour morning and evening on my plots come rain or shine in the growing season but even at that, with the recent wet weather it has become really difficult to keep the weeds in check. Hope that gives you some idea.

[Ashaman42]

I fully expect to have to pour more time into it in the set-up phase, can always cut back on the other things for a bit but wouldn't want to give them up completely.

I understand it being a bit unfair to take a plot if I'm not going to make the most of it but I tihnk it's worth giving it a try for a year and deciding after that. I might decide to give it up but might find I'm getting on ok, better that, I think, than not trying at all.

[SarzWix]

Have a look at this thread: http://www.growfruitandveg.co.uk/gra...ment_5573.html
A great way of having a plot under cultivation without having to spend half your life weeding I used these techniques when I first got my plot, and it works. Have let it slack a bit the last year due to a lack of organisation in mulching at the right times...

[Snadger]

I am struggling with my two 10 rod plots this year! I am there every evening after work for three hours and all day Sunday (only Saturday off!)
The weeding is like painting the forth bridge and i just don't seem to be able to get on top of it this year. Mainly my paths between beds it has to be said, as I laid wood chippings on barrier mesh but we've had no wood chippings delivered for yonks and the weeds seem to love this enviroment.

The joys of gardening!

[taff]

see if you can find the book The half hour allotment by lia leendertz. It's a good read with pointers for using your time efficiently. Basically, it's just planning what you're going to do before/when you get there and not being distracted when you're there.

[Two_Sheds]

I might decide to give it up but might find I'm getting on ok, better that, I think, than not trying at all.

Absolutely have a go.
Don't be too proud to take advice or ask for help if it's getting on top of you. So many people take on a plot thinking it's just a matter of planting, watering a bit and weeding then picking supermarket-style clean veggies They don't realise the weeds KEEP ON COMING ! or that pests try to eat everything you put in, but they won't ask for advice, they just give up trying and let the plot get into a terrible state.

Best of luck to you, give it a go

[Aberdeenplotter]

I am struggling with my two 10 rod plots this year! I am there every evening after work for three hours and all day Sunday (only Saturday off!)
The weeding is like painting the forth bridge and i just don't seem to be able to get on top of it this year. Mainly my paths between beds it has to be said, as I laid wood chippings on barrier mesh but we've had no wood chippings delivered for yonks and the weeds seem to love this enviroment.

The joys of gardening!

Snadge, I've patiently sourced redundant paving slabs from freecycle over the years and laid them on the paths beyween my beds. Certainly has cut down on the weeding work and has the advantage of she who counts being more willing to come down to the plot as she can navigate everywhere(almost) with clean footing. I still need about 10 2ft slabs to finish the job but it has been really worthwhile. The other advantage is that any rainfall gets diverted off the pathways into the beds and that is really helpful in the drier periods. Invest in a sack barrow if you decide to do it. Makes moving the slabs a dawdle.

[Ashaman42]

I'm hearing you on the weeds/pests front.

Have been growing a bit in the garden this year and had a nice row of 8 kale plants growing until a heavy rain washed away the slug pellets and now I have a single kale plant

[Plot06]

I reckon about 8 hours once it's sorted out, to a point it depends on what you grow some things need more attention than others. You'll probably find out you just stay there a bit to chill out as well once you get to know people. Anyway have fun and remember it's supposed to be a hobby not a chore.