Plot 163a and b are two 5 pole local authority allotments, in the South East of England, in Hertford, Hertfordshire. It sits near to a community garden which service users attend daily.
The plots are set between a nature reserve and residential housing estate, edged by an abundance of hedges and trees. Both plots are quite exposed to the wind and sun with very little shelter from trees.
Plot 163b has been established since April 2021, and plot 163a since, 2025. This second plot is in the early stages of designing. Some forest garden elements have already been included such as autumn olive, siberian currants, josta berries and siberian pea tree, black mint, soapwort, lunwort, black currants. The fence to the allotment is being used to not only keeps dogs and rabbits out, but also provides a structure to support cinnamon vine, logan and goji berry. We use no dig methods and incorporate the odd annual plant into the design.
A pond has been added to provide addtional habitat for the palmate and great crested newts, to provide thermass in the winter and for the enjoyment of watching the water life emerge. Sheet mulching and green manure to helped keep weeds at bay and provide fertility. Comfrey, is quite abundant and is used as a chop and drop, and with nettles for liquid fertiliser.
Update 2025
The jostaberry and siberian pea tree and other perennials have since died, perhaps as a result of being exposes to extreme weather conditions. These are part of plot 163b, and under redesign.
Workshops -
1:1 or group workshops of up to 4 people, are available. Please get in touch.