Crop Rotation – Get the most from your Vegetable Plot

Ideally crops should be rotated within a plot so that the same family group is never in the spot every year. This not only helps to keep soil nutrients at their optimum but also helps to avoid soil based pests and diseases which are often attracted to the crops within the same family group.

Firstly decide on the vegetables you enjoy, giving consideration to the amount of space available. Aim to produce vegetables all the year round without shortages or gluts. The area chosen should be divided into three equal sections.

Year 1

• Section 1 – If you can, dig in well-rotted manure or garden compost in the autumn or early winter – it’s not essential but it will give you better crops; in the first year grow Beans, Leek, Lettuce, Onions, Peas, and Tomatoes.
• Section 2 – A general garden fertiliser should be applied 10 to 14 days prior to planting or sowing. This area can then be used for growing Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbages, Cauliflower and Kale.
• Section 3 – Apply general fertiliser prior to sowing and planting. The crops to be grown in this section include Beetroot, Carrots, Parsnips, Potatoes, and Swedes.

Year 2 crop rotation As above moving all crops on one section.
Year 3 crop rotation Crops and treatments are rotated once more so that all sections have grown all plants over a three year period.

Examples of a 3 year crop rotation plan shown in tables format.

* Only lime if soil is known to be acid