Seasonal Planting Guide for Wembury Allotments
Wembury and our Allotments are located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the South Hams which experiences a temperate maritime climate, usually resulting in mild winters and cool summers. The area benefits from its proximity to the coast and the moderating influence of the Gulf Stream, resulting in relatively stable temperatures and ample rainfall throughout the year.
To make the most of your allotment plot throughout the year, it's a good idea to follow a seasonal planting guide that aligns with the local climate and growing conditions. By understanding the best times to plant different crops, you can maximize your harvest and enjoy a diverse range of fresh produce.
Let's explore a suggested seasonal planting guide specifically tailored for Wembury allotments.
Spring Planting: Spring is an exciting time in the allotment, as the temperatures begin to rise, and the days get longer. It's an ideal season to kickstart your growing season and sow various crops. Here are some popular crops to consider planting in spring:
- Leafy Greens: Start with leafy greens such as lettuce, spinach, kale, and Swiss chard. These cool-season crops thrive in the mild spring temperatures. Consider sowing certain crops at weekly intervals to provide a longer harvesting season.
- Root Vegetables: Sow root vegetables like carrots, radishes, and beets. Ensure the soil is well-drained and as free of rocks or debris as possible for optimal root development.
- Peas: Plant peas. Provide them with support, such as trellises or stakes, as they grow. Watch out for mice !
- Brassicas: Start seeds at home for brassicas such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts. Transplant seedlings once they've grown a few inches tall.
Summer Planting: Summer brings warm temperatures and longer days, providing optimal conditions for a wide range of crops. Take advantage of the summer season to grow heat-loving and fast growing plants. Here are some crops suitable for summer planting in Wembury:
- Tomatoes: Plant tomato seedlings or start seeds indoors earlier in the season for a bountiful summer harvest. Provide support for the plants as they grow and ensure they receive adequate sunlight. The Polytunnel usually produces marvellous crops!
- Cucumbers: Sow cucumber seeds or transplant seedlings into the ground or containers. Cucumbers thrive in warm temperatures and require trellises or supports for vertical growth.
- Beans: Plant different varieties of beans for a continuous harvest throughout the summer. Ensure they receive ample sunlight and provide support for runner and similar types of beans. Runners tend to need a good amount of water so make sure you have a good supply!
- Herbs: Grow a variety of herbs like basil, parsley, coriander,rosemary and dill. These aromatic plants flourish in the summer heat and add flavour to your culinary creations.
- Swede.: Plant swede seeds in June or July, the lore is that they should be in the ground before mid-summers day but that's your choice!
Autumn Planting: Autumn is a transitional season, and it offers another opportunity to extend your growing season and enjoy fresh produce. The milder temperatures and consistent rainfall create favourable conditions for certain crops. Consider the following crops for autumn planting in Wembury:
- Leafy Greens: Continue sowing leafy greens like lettuce, arugula, and mustard greens. They prefer cooler temperatures and can withstand light frosts.
- Brassicas: Plant late-season brassicas such as kale, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage. These crops thrive in cooler weather and develop better flavour after a light frost.
- Root Vegetables: Sow cool-season root vegetables like turnips, radishes, and winter carrots. These crops can withstand colder temperatures and provide delicious produce during winter.
- Overwintering Crops: Consider planting overwintering crops like garlic and shallots. Plant them in autumn, and they will establish roots during the winter months for a spring harvest. Good advice is to use a third, replant a third and give a third away !!
Winter Maintenance: During winter, focus on maintenance tasks to prepare your plot for the upcoming growing season. Clear away any debris, protect crops from frost with fleece or cloches, and look after overwintering crops. Winter is also an excellent time to plan your crop rotation and order seeds for the next year. It is also the time to fill up your on-plot water storage systems as during the winter months plot holders may take water from the dip tanks in order to top up their water butts if necessary. !
Remember that specific planting times may vary depending on the microclimate/shading of your allotment and the specific requirements of different plant varieties you are using. It's always beneficial to consult local gardening resources, fellow plot holders, and gardening guides specific to the Wembury region for precise planting recommendations.
The climate in Wembury, however,could well undergo significant changes due to climate change.
Rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns could impact the allotments in various ways. Heatwaves and droughts may become more frequent, posing challenges for water availability and potentially stressing crops. Increased rainfall intensity could lead to soil erosion and waterlogging, affecting soil quality and drainage. Additionally, shifts in seasonal patterns may disrupt the growth cycles of crops, requiring adjustments to planting and harvesting schedules.
These changes highlight the importance of implementing adaptive strategies, such as irrigation systems, crop diversification, and soil conservation practices, to maintain the productivity and resilience of the allotments amidst a changing climate.
By following this seasonal planting guide for Wembury allotments, you can enjoy a productive and diverse garden throughout the year. Happy gardening