In our ‘From the Plot’ series, we chat to inspiring growers who share their passion and knowledge with others. This month, Emma from @emmasallotmentdiaries reveals how documenting the highs and lows of taming her overgrown allotment has encouraged thousands of others to do the same. But why does she think beginners should throw out the rulebook, and which is the crop that she can’t resist growing?
My growing journey started with an allotment
Emma beneath a thriving squash arch on her allotment
Image courtesy of Emma Bailey
My love of gardening began back just before lockdown in 2020 when I managed to get my hands on an allotment plot. I had very limited gardening experience at the time, and the plot was completely overgrown; all I had was my enthusiasm and determination to grow my own food and flowers. I began documenting my journey on YouTube and Instagram, and I continue to do so, with the hope of inspiring others to try growing their own food!
I love the mystery of gardening
A glimpse of Emma’s thriving allotment, packed with flowers and vegetables
Image courtesy of Emma Bailey
I would describe my gardening style as a little bit chaotic and a lot of trial and error. As much as I love learning about gardening, I still enjoy the mystery of putting a plant or seed in the ground and not quite knowing what it’s going to do. I hope to never lose that magic.
I can’t resist growing pumpkins
Emma showing off a perfectly ripe pumpkin
Image courtesy of Emma Bailey
Pumpkins are my absolute favourite crop to grow, without a doubt! I grow them over archways and spend far too much time stressing and fussing over them.
The best way to learn is by doing
Emma tending to her plants and harvesting fresh veg
Images courtesy of Emma Bailey
My top tip for beginners is to throw out the rule book and just whack stuff into the ground. There’s so much information out there about how to grow, which is amazing, but when you’re starting out, less knowledge is actually more! The best way to learn is to start whacking seeds and plants in the ground and watch what happens. Gardens aren’t meant to be perfect; they’re messy and chaotic and ruthless places, and that’s what makes them so beautiful!
My allotment fills me with pride and joy
Rows of netted vegetable beds across Emma’s allotment
Image courtesy of Emma Bailey
I’m so proud of how far I’ve come with my allotment. I’ve taken an overgrown jungle and created a space that brings me unlimited amounts of joy. Sometimes I even manage to harvest some crops from it too!
I’m also proud of the community of like-minded gardeners that I’ve built through my social media platforms. I love how I’ve been able to inspire others to take on allotment plots or just try to grow some vegetable plants!
I’m excited to transform my new garden
Emma among the flowers, and picking apples from her allotment tree
Images courtesy of Emma Bailey
I’m currently in the process of moving house, so I’ll be looking to get stuck in with a brand new garden, which makes me feel so excited and inspired! Watch this space.
Grow like Emma
Image: Broad Bean ‘Express’ – Seeds from Suttons.
If you want to grow like Emma, here are just a few of her favourites:
Follow Emma at @emmasallotmentdiaries for ideas and tips on growing colourful, edible crops. To discover more inspirational growers, explore our ‘From the Plot’ series.
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