apples-cropped_36dpi.jpg

Growing your own food makes sense for the environment, your own health and your finances. Even if you just have a small outside space, you may want to consider creating a raised bed, which provides decent drainage and a chance to fill the space with good soil and compost. If you don't have enough room for a raised bed, you can still produce things on a smaller scale, like herbs in a window box.

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) can offer advice on almost anything to do with gardening, as well as informing you of events and providing a gardeners calendar so you don't miss the perfect time to dig your vegetable patch. Contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 0845 260 5000.

Garden Organic, the organic growing charity is dedicated to researching and promoting organic gardening, farming and food. Their website offers advice and information on organic pest controls, and has an online shop. Contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or phone 024 7630 3517.

For those without a garden, or who don't wish to dig up the lawn, an allotment could be the answer. Your parish or town clerk will be able to tell you if there are allotments in your area or not.

Mendip District Council has a full list of contact details for Parish and Town Council clerks who can inform you about allotments in your area. ContactThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 01749 648999.

The National Association of Allotment and Leisure Gardeners (NSALG): NSALG aims to preserve, protect and promote a traditional way of life, found in allotment holding. Contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 01536 266576.

Allotments 4 All: For a forum, useful links and information on allotments.

Allotments UK: For links, discussion, tips and advice on keeping your allotment or growing your own vegetables in the back garden.