There are many reasons to have an allotment. Some people consider owning an allotment a thing of the past or a quiet activity for retirees. However, with the current financial problems in the UK it has never been so popular to grow your own veg.

The reasons for owning an allotment are not however just financial. We all know that vegetables are good for us, and there is an enormous difference between the ones that we can grow ourselves and the ones that are mass produced for the giant supermarket conglomerates. Supermarket vegetables may be shipped half way around the world accruing an inordinate number of air miles, they may be irradiated, treated with chemicals to keep pests at bay or coated with preservatives to increase their shelf life.

Vegetables are produced in such quantities that to produce such high yields they cannot match in flavour or freshness than crops that you have grown yourself. From the moment that you cultivate the soil and then plant the seed, to the day your crop has matured and is ready to be picked, you know exactly when they have been fed, watered, manured or tended. Eating vegetables just picked or pulled is immensely good for you, the fresher the vegetables are, the more packed with vitamins and minerals they are going to be.

Eating fresh ingredients is not however the only health promoting activity an allotment can bring; working on your plot in the fresh air can be a productive and enjoyable way to keep fit. Many people consider their allotment a soothing place where they can unwind after a difficult week at work or a contemplative place to reinvigorate the soul.

Whatever your reasons allotment gardening is an enjoyable and rejuvenating activity that will bring you many years of happiness.