Allotment etiquette

Get to know your neighbours

Experienced allotment neighbours can be a source of advice, spare seeds and plants and even physical help if you need it. Most allotments have a good community spirit and people are happy to help one another. However, while many allotment holders are happy to be social when they head to the plot, others enjoy peace and quiet. Compromise on this – always give time to chat to your neighbours, but avoid playing loud music or using a noisy strimmer or hedge trimmer if they want peace. You never know when you might need to call on them for help or advice.

Keep weeds under control

If you let weeds get out of control on your plot, they’ll spread or seed into other plots. This can cause huge problems with neighbours, who may employ a much stricter weeding routine than you do. While you could argue that certain weeds are important for wildlife, you need to achieve a balance that works for everyone. If you do let some weeds flourish, such as nettles and dandelions, then show your consideration for neighbours by cutting them back before they set seed. It’s especially important to keep borders free from weeds.

However, if you use weedkiller, it’s worth knowing if your neighbours grow their food organically, as they may object to you using chemicals near their plot. Don’t spray weedkiller near the border or on a windy day, as it could drift on to neighbouring plots.

Keep your dog tethered

If you have a dog, don’t let it run amok on neighbouring plots and certainly don’t let it defecate anywhere other than your plot. This is guaranteed to upset your neighbours.

Take care when lighting fires

Don’t light a bonfire on a windy afternoon, and ask your neighbours before you light it – they might not appreciate working alongside your bonfire all day. It’s also worth checking to see if windows of neighbouring houses are open or if you can spot washing hanging in neighbouring gardens.

Be water wise

Many allotment sites have access to communal water, but it pays to conserve your own by using water butts and mulching where possible. If you do use the communal water tap, try to limit your use as much as possible and don’t keep others waiting for long. At some plots, water pressure can decrease when too many people are using the tap – bear this in mind and try to water at different times of day.

Be considerate when planting

Avoid planting tall trees that block light from neighbouring plots. If grown near the border, rampant or invasive plants, such as strawberries, squash and sweet potatoes, can take nutrients from neighbouring soil and compete with crops your neighbours have grown. It’s therefore important to consider where you grow certain crops and perhaps use pots, such as strawberry planters and containers, instead.

Share your crops

Sharing crops, seed, tools and knowledge is a sure-fire way to make lasting allotment friends who will return your kindness.