Lotta Allotment

We have an allotment at Pollok Park, which keeps going from strength to strength. Members and staff visit three times a week, and trips are full of weeding, planting, watering and more. Food that’s grown there is harvested and used in our kitchen back at Flourish House. We are currently growing strawberries, peas, potatoes and more, which have survived in spite of the slugs’ best efforts! There have been some really exciting new additions to the allotment too – a new shed, a (handmade) scarecrow and a parasol! We caught up with some allotment regulars…

Fiona:

What do you like to do at the allotment?

I like to do the weeding and the watering. And I like to plant the plants. It is relaxing and therapeutic.

There’s been some changes at the allotment, like a new scarecrow and a new shed. How is it all going?

I’ve not seen the shed yet, but I’ve seen the scarecrow. It’s quite good!

What’s your advice to anyone thinking about visiting our allotment?

It’s well worth it!

James:

How are you enjoying the allotment?

It’s amazing. Nice wee allotment, great crowd. It calms me down doing all the watering and the kelly kettle. Very nice to walk around all the other allotments, very peaceful.

Has the allotment encouraged you to work on your own garden?

I’ve spent a lot of time over the last few weeks cutting the hedge, the grass, pruning and of course pulling weeds. The heat has tired me out but I’m trying to get as much done before the rains come in.

It’s been tough going when doing it on my own. I’m now enjoying the garden and it’s given me a sense of achievement.

Another member:

How is the new shed going?

Good!

What do you like most about the allotment?

Gets me out doing things. I walk up and down lots of the time. I can’t believe how well the stuff is growing.

What would you say to anyone thinking of visiting the allotment?

Get some old clothes ready and give it a go!