One of Andrew's most popular workshops, this course is ideal for anyone considering an allotment or looking to get more from an existing plot. Growing your own fruit and vegetables can be both rewarding and satisfying, and this practical course will introduce the key principles of successful allotment gardening.
The day will cover site selection and topography, soil management, composting, crop rotation, crop selection and cultivation techniques for a wide range of fruit, vegetables and salads. We will also discuss no-dig gardening, fertilisers, plant nutrition, green manures and composting.
You will visit both the Teaching Productive Garden and the main Productive Kitchen Garden, where produce is grown for use in the Harrogate Arms kitchen. An area will also be set aside for practical activities, including soil preparation, seed-drill preparation, seed sowing and planting. There will be an opportunity to sow seeds and take cuttings to take home at the end of the day.
Course tutor: Andrew Willocks (RHS)
With over 30 years' experience at Harlow Carr, working for both the Northern Horticultural Society and the RHS, Andrew has extensive expertise in horticulture, plant propagation, gardening and wildlife. A qualified horticulturist with a Foundation Degree in Amenity Horticulture, they are part of the RHS Education team, helping to deliver courses and workshops on a range of gardening topics.
Alongside their education role, Andrew works as a Gardening and Wildlife Specialist, supporting woodland management and contributing to butterfly and bird surveys, reflecting a long-standing passion for plants, wildlife and conservation.
Please Note: There will be contact with compost, so covering of cuts and scratches is advised.
Location: Bramall Learning Centre
Please arrive 15 minutes before the start of the workshop to allow time to register your arrival at the Main Entrance and make your way to the classroom.
Catering:
- Tea and coffee will be available throughout.
- Drinking water is available, and we suggest the use of a reusable water bottle.
- You are welcome to bring your own lunch or purchase food and drinks from RHS Harrogate Arms or Bettys. Both are just a short walk away, but can be busy at lunchtime, so you may wish to purchase food before the course begins. Full details can be found here.
For this workshop you will need:
- Your booking reference
- A pen/pencil and notebook for notes
- Hard walking boots or sturdy shoes, waterproofs and gloves as appropriate.
- Please wear clothing suitable for the weather conditions on the day
- All tools and materials will be provided
