Starting an Allotment:

The First most important thing when starting an att is getting the site right, unlike many other things on an att it cannot be changed. Most atts are around 25 sq meters in size but this can vary a lot ! Most atts are owned by local authorities. The advantages of sites owned by your local authorities is that they cannot be sold off easily and rarely do.

How to find an att
There are many ways that you can get an att
� The internet- most societies have a site
� In the local library as they hold lists
� Parish councils may help
� Ask friends and relatives
� Ring the local council

Is your plot suitable?
You may find a site but is it really suitable? Your site preferably needs to be within walking distance of your house, is their parking nearby as this will be essial when a large load of manure is brought to your att and tools start to arrive. You will need to check the rules of your site *beware some do not aw children*, try to find a site in full sun if possible. Finally check about vandalism and security.

Now you have a suitable plot you need to make it yours
This starts with a large amount of planning, what do you want? You will probably need a shed and/or a greenhouse, some beds, maybe fruit bushes and trees, do you want flowers? This all should be planned out on a large piece of paper.
It is best to start preparing a new att between September and march, start to early or late and you will end up doing twice the amount of work.

Useful tools for a new att
� Spade, folk, hoe, rake and trowel
� Wheelbarrow
� Large and smaller buckets
� Strimmer or mower
� Watering can
� Sticks String and labels
� Tape measure
� Loads of black plastic
� Pencil and notebook
� A comfy chair (maybe a kettle and a mini stove)

Clearing a new plot
Clearing a plot can be so simple if the right methods are used without the use of chemicals. Just take it slow, little and often is best! Try to remove all the debris on top of the soil ( beware of glass as rusty metals), and cover with large amounts of black plastic as this will keep the soil dark and all the weeds will die. However you could try the quick method but this can be very hard work, jump in with a strimmer or a mower and thoroughly dig all the soil removing all weeds and stones as you go. Whichever you prefer and are capable of doing.