Planning and Techniques Article 2

Planning and techniques

Planning and techniques

Planning makes perfect
Part Two: Getting it down on paper

Now you've got an idea of what's going on your veg plot, it's time to get out pencils and paper and get it down in black and white.

First, measure your plot as accurately as you can – not just the boundaries but also the positions of features like trees. Then you can begin turning your dreams into reality.

Get drawing

A scale of 2cm for every 1m works well for larger plots such as allotments, or for smaller veg patches go for 4cm to the metre for plenty of detail. Then draw the boundaries of your plot as accurately as you can. If drawing isn't your strong point, GrowVeg (www.growveg.com) offers an easy-to-use program for a small fee.

Putting in the big stuff

First in are the biggest items – sheds, compost bins and greenhouses. Cut out graph paper shapes to scale, one for each item, and move them around on your drawing until you're happy.

place sheds to cast as little shadow on veg beds as possible.
align greenhouses east to west to maximise light, and avoid putting them under trees
compost bins can be smelly – so don't put them by your seating area

Getting from A to B
Your main route through the veg plot should be straightforward – you'll curse artfully wiggly paths when you're negotiating them with a laden wheelbarrow. Start where you come in and cut across to the other side.

Then add routes to places you'll visit a lot, like sheds and compost bins, and finally make sure you have access round each of your veg beds. Main paths should be wide enough for a wheelbarrow – 75cm is a minimum, 1m is better – but smaller paths can be as little as 45cm wide.

Getting the beds right
As you're doing your paths, develop the layout of your veg beds. You can get really creative – rectangular or square grids look smart, but how about L-shapes or even triangles? Geometric patterns look fantastic, though keep it simple so it's easy to build and use.

Groups of three or four beds are very practical, as you can rotate crops around every year so pests and diseases don't build up. And don't forget beds for permanent crops like asparagus, artichokes and fruit.

Planning your plot over a glass of wine or two of a winter evening really fires you up with enthusiasm for the season to come. What's more, you'll have a blueprint for your veg growing to refer back to for years. Once you've finished you'll be raring to go – so pick up the spade and some seed lists and let's get started!

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