Frequently Asked Questions

How much will it cost me to rent an allotment?

The annual rent will be approximately £40 for a half plot and £80 for a full sized plot.

How big is an allotment?

A full size plot is 250 sq m however new members are usually given half (125 sq m) or quarter (60-70 sq m) size plots when they join.

Do I have to be an expert gardener to rent an allotment?

Definitely not.  We have plotholders whose abilities range from absolute novice to expert.  One things is for sure – your fellow allotmenteers would be happy to help and advise.  We also sell guides to growing fruit and vegetables and more information is available on our website.

How do I go about renting an allotment?

Please speak to a committee member or email us (see contact us page).  When you have been shown a plot you would like to rent, you will be asked to sign a 6 month probationary tenancy agreement and pay for your rent, membership fee and key deposit.

Is there a waiting list?

Yes, we currently have a waiting list.  There are other allotment societies in the Bromley area which may have vacancies – please contact the environment and leisure service department in Bromley Council (on 020 8313 4471) for more details.

You are of course welcome to visit our site and, for a small fee, join our garden club

What can and can’t I do with my allotment?

The Allotments Act says that allotment plots should be wholly or mainly cultivated by the occupier for the production of vegetable or fruit crops for consumption by the plotholder and their family.     The Allotment Act does not preclude part of the allotment being used for relaxation and recreation along the lines of continental ‘leisure gardens’.  Plots cannot be used for trade or business or for storage of business related materials.

Do I have to cultivate my allotment organically?

An increasing number of people do use organic techniques, but it is not compulsory.

What can I grow?

There is no set rules on how members should use their individual plots of land.  Produce grown recently has ranged from the traditional rows of runner beans to water tanks full of lotus flowers.  Last year produce included sea kale, physalis, tree tomato, Chinese lettuce, endive and courgettes.  Flowers included chrysanthemums, dahlias, roses, zinnias, tulips and lavender.

 What facilities are there on site?

Facilities include toilets, a trading hut, a clubhouse, a polytunnel, recycling yard, communal seating, events area, a wildlife garden, a secret garden, an apiary and an orchard.