Allotment gardening is becoming increasingly popular as more and more people discover that growing their own organic vegetables, fruit and herbs is an attractive and achievable option. Gardening also has additional benefits: it is an excellent way to take exercise and can be very therapeutic. The Allotment Handbook is full of practical information and tips on every aspect of growing produce on an allotment. Beginning with the basics, there is information on finding a plot, preparing the soil, dealing with weeds, crop rotation and planting the beds. A chapter on gardening techniques covers propagation, protecting your plants, pruning and harvesting. A useful month-by-month section provides at-a-glance information on key tasks and gives pointers and tips to help keep the allotment productive all year round. Comprehensive directories of vegetables, fruit and herbs include information on sowing, varieties and pest and disease control. The book also includes useful information on allotments and the law, with resources and addresses for gardeners. With reliable, practical information and an easy-to-use format, this is the perfect companion for every existing or prospective allotment owne

Caroline Foley is a freelance garden writer who contributes to newspapers and magazines including Country Living and Gardens Illustrated. She trained as a garden designer at the English Gardening School and with the City and Guilds. Her first book, Practical Allotment Gardening is also published by New Holland. She lives in Islington, London.