Organic September

This month the Soil Association is challenging people to make a small change towards organic living. This could be trying a new organic product or switching to an organic version of an everyday item. Not surprisingly, eating and growing food organically is high on most people's list.

Organic growing on the allotment does bring it's own challenges but is not difficult, just different. The main principle is to recognise that the key to everything is a healthy and fertile soil.

The basis to growing organically is to improve the soil by making and adding your own compost and other natural fertilisers such as horse manure; encouraging nature to work for you instead of against you; and being mindful of changes to the plants on your plot.

Techniques such as crop rotation and companion planting to manage pests, and mulching to preserve moisture in your soil are easy to learn and apply and will ultimately make your plot easier to manage and much more enjoyable.

So take up the challenge to make just one organic change to your allotment and make a start towards a healthier and happier plot.

For more information and easy tips on growing organically see the Organic Gardening Factsheet.

Find out more about the Soil Association's Organic your September campaign.