ON THE CROFT

UK Allotment : Grow : Build : Learn

December

SOW • GROW • HARVEST • PLAN


January on the allotment isn’t about rushing — it’s about setting the tone for the year ahead. The beds may look quiet, but planning, preparation and small early actions now shape everything that follows. Take time to walk the plot, imagine the coming harvests and start laying the groundwork — literally and mentally— for the growing season.


SOW THIS MONTH | GROW & MAINTAIN | JOBS ON THE PLOT | HARVEST NOW | CROFT NOTES


“January isn’t about rushing — it’s about setting the rhythm for the year ahead.”


Sow This Month

January sowing is about starting smart rather than starting everything.

  • Start indoors: aubergines, chillies, onions, early cauliflower, herbs.
  • Under cover: winter salads, lettuce, mizuna, broad beans, early peas.
  • Direct sow (late month / mild weather): radish and experimental early sowings.


Grow & Maintain

Winter growth is slow but steady — observation and protection are key.

  • Remove yellow brassica leaves and maintain pigeon protection.
  • Feed spring cabbages to encourage leafy growth.
  • Check onion and shallot sets after frost heave.
  • Ventilate greenhouse during mild days.
  • Insulate with bubble wrap and organize growing space


Jobs on the Plot

Preparation now sets the foundation for the growing season ahead.

  • Order seed potatoes, onions, garlic and seeds.
  • Plan crop rotation for the coming season.
  • Warm pea beds with cloches.
  • Protect compost heaps from cold.
  • Move manure when ground is firm.
  • Clear debris to reduce pests and disease.


Harvest Now

  • Brussels sprouts, kale and winter greens.
  • Leeks and parsnips (sweeter after frost).
  • Purple sprouting broccoli.
  • Chard, spinach and hardy salads.
  • Jerusalem artichokes.


On The Croft Reflection


January reminds us that gardening isn’t always visible progress. Beneath the surface, roots develop, soil life rebuilds and plans begin to take shape. Take advantage of the slower pace — dream, organize and prepare. As Spring always comes quicker than expected.

Alfie’s Croft Notes

“Walk the plot slowly this month — winter reveals structural problems you won’t notice when everything is growing.”