Why I have an Allotment.

For reasons that are not as simple as it might seem.

My allotment plot is not perfect but for now it is mine.

Sometimes it takes a friend asking you a question for you to find an answer to another question that you have never thought off or asked yourself .

Recently, I found answers to a question I had never really asked myself about the allotment, why do I keep it on when at times it can be a battle with the elements and hard work?

The friends question was " Why do n't you give up the allotment?" I answered in the way we often answer questions, by giving the easiest and simplest answer " Because even though it is hard work at times, I enjoy doing it and I like being there."


When I had the time, I thought about the question and the answer I had given. This led to me asking myself  - "What is it about the allotment that makes me enjoy my time there and why is the work and effort worthwhile to me?  And also why do I keep it,  even at times when battling to keep the plot in some reasonable order against a list of often uncontrollable things like the weather, the weeds,the slugs and snails and the ever hungry pigeons? Especially when they seem like they are in a battle of conspiracy to defeat you?"

I was surprised to discover that as well as the obvious answer that I enjoy it, there are another two, the first is to do with the time and effort invested in the plot over the years. The other reason is more complicated and is linked to why I took an allotment plot in the first place.

There was a time when no one else seemed to want an allotment locally, especially this particular one with its tangle of  weeds and brambles.

I think secretly I may have seen myself as its guardian. There was at that time a threat to  under used allotment sites which where at risk of being taken over and being used for housing. This was probably at the back of my mind when I read that plots were available within walking distance of my home.

 It was after taking a walk to the site and looking through the gate on a damp day, that something happened that made me put my name down for a plot. Later, when shown a supposedly cleared and ready to go plot it was my straggly unloved plot with the ancient and not too healthy plum tree that I ask for. Is there a name for this wanting to rescue a piece of land that does not and never will really belong to you ? I doubt it, but together over the years have proved that we are an odd combination both of us determined in our own ways, rewarding each other in ways too difficult to describe. Basically I attempt to nurture the plot and in return it nurtures me with fruit and vegetables.

  I know that I cannot give it up and if I ever have to,  it will be with much regret.