As part of our ‘From the Plot’ series on Instagram, we’ve been chatting to inspirational growers who generously share their gardening knowledge with others. We spoke to Jess Hunter — a garden designer and the grower behind @allotment_and_cake. Find out how she’s created a thriving plot at the heart of family life, and why she finds growing her own so rewarding.
Read the full interview here…
Having children inspired me to grow my own food
Images courtesy of @allotment_and_cake
I’ve always loved being outside. I have great memories of playing in my Grandparents’ garden when I was a child. I specifically remember the smell of the tomatoes in my Grandpa’s greenhouse, and thinking the spiky cucumbers he grew were so different to the ones we get in the shops.
When I was 18, I studied a garden design degree at Sparsholt College. I loved the idea of applying my love of art and design to working outdoors. I worked as a garden designer for many years, alongside jobs in a range of garden centres.
Soon after my first son was born, I signed up for an allotment. I had never grown fruit or vegetables before, but I liked the idea of growing my own fresh, organic food for my growing family. I now have two sons, and the allotment has become an important part of our family lifestyle.
Growing in rows: my allotment style
Images courtesy of @allotment_and_cake
At the allotment, I like things to grow in an orderly manner. I find growing in straight rows easier to manage, and I quite like the formal look it creates — it draws your eye away from all the weeds around the boundary!
At home, in my flower borders, I like to stick to colour schemes and work with the aspect. One side is planted with white flowers that thrive in deep shade; the other side has pinks, purples, and blues in bright sunshine.
My favourite crops are garlic and onions
I love growing garlic and onions — I like the challenge of stringing or plaiting them for storing. I also enjoy growing different types of squash; I display them in the house as the skins cure, then use them in soups throughout the winter. I’ve recently been growing lettuce at home, which I find so rewarding, as you have no choice but to buy it wrapped in plastic from the shops these days.
How I improve my soil for better growing results
Images courtesy of @allotment_and_cake
I recommend you review and improve the soil as much as you can. If you’re taking on an overgrown allotment, consider a no-dig approach, or start with something like potatoes to help break up compacted soil. Many allotment sites have community setups where plot holders can group together to bulk-buy manure or soil improvers. Creating a compost heap early on is also a great way to manage green waste while preparing for the future.
I’m proud to see my children growing their own food
Images courtesy of @allotment_and_cake
I feel really proud of how much my children know about growing food. I once had Phil Vickery — the TV chef from This Morning — visit my allotment. My boys gave him the tour and were able to tell him what everything growing was. I couldn’t get a word in! I was prouder of them in that moment than of being on the telly.
I’m hoping for homegrown sprouts this Christmas
This year, I’m preparing well for winter, with plans to grow plenty of brassicas to see us through. Last year’s sprouts were a disaster, so this time I’m determined to have some ready for Christmas Day. Eating homegrown veg on Christmas Day feels really rewarding.
Grow like Jess
Quick maturing Rhubarb ‘Victoria’ produces a heavy crop year after year
Image: Rhubarb ‘Victoria’ (Spring/Autumn Planting) from Suttons (© Dreamstime)
You can follow Jess over at @allotment_and_cake. And if you want to read about other inspirational growers, check out everyone featured in our ‘From the Plot’ series for a wealth of practical advice.
