Closer to nature..

“It feels out of place and time, like a little community where people relax and have time for each other, separate from the stress and strains of normal life,” is how Louise Rogan passionately describes her ‘slice of heaven’, her very own allotment.

Located in King’s Langley, backing on to the canal, it was not just the picturesque location, I presume, that caught this nature enthusiasts eye, but more importantly, the several other benefits that it had to offer.

To begin with, “the advantages are fresh fruit and veg, grown without pesticides. Plus, with soaring food prices, it works out much cheaper,” says Lousie.

All this, coupled with a feeling of “pride of seeing food grown from seed, working outside in a lovely environment, seeing wildlife and generally feeling closer to nature. Also, the people are always friendly and happy to give advice.

When I first started, they would come and introduce themselves and even now, often give me produce from their own plots and pass on plants if they have grown too many.” Who could complain?

So, is it an expensive hobby, I question. “I have taken over half an allotment which costs me £6.50 per year. Other expenses include gardening tools, seeds, water butts, netting, a shed, if you want one, although it is not necessary,” informs Rogan.

Allotment facts

Well, as is the two sides to every coin, I begin to wonder if this‘hidden treasure’ has perhaps, a downside to it. 

She reveals that “occasionally sheds do get broken into, so most people don’t put padlocks on. I just have old tools and leave them out. None however, have gone missing.”

Contrary to common belief though, allotments have acquired such an increased popularity not just with retired folk, but with “a lot of middle aged-working people and a few individuals in their twenties, as well.”

Hence, be prepared for a substantial wait to get your hands on a plot. “I have had the allotment since January 2008 and was on the waiting list for approximately eight months prior to that. It is full now, with people still queuing to get in!”

It is evident therefore, that time is no deterrent and neither are any of the apparent drawbacks.

A rebirth is what has occurred, and a good one at that! “Owners tell me that a few years ago, the place was overgrown with few people, so they have definitely undergone a revival.

Allotments have gained much exposure recently, via river cottage and gardening programmes,” concludes the nature lover.