Allotment Life

When we got our Alloment Plot there was one man that we had to get to know - the main man - John Hooper. The Guardian of Garratt Park Allotments.

John was born and raised in Canada and has now lived in the UK for nearly 50 years. He followed a career in project management in heavy engineering and construction, but his passion has always been in the garden. We caught up with John for a bit of a natter about getting into growing your own food and his top tips if you're starting out.

John, How long have you held a plot?

StartFragmentI have been on the Garratt Park allotment site for about 22 years. I have been doing allotments for 35 years. I have been committee chairman and site manager for 12 years.

What got you started with gardening and what led to getting an allotment?

I have gardened all my life, Born on a farm in Canada and grew up in a family where garden veg were a necessary part of the household budget. I have always had a large garden or smallholding in the UK. When I moved into London where I had no significant garden, getting an allotment was a vital part of the equation.

What was the first ever plant you grew?

Don't remember. It was probably tomatoes.

What is your plant nemesis?

Bindweed

What is your favourite vegetable/fruit to grow?

Hard to pick one but tomatoes are one of the top for their variety and wonderful flavour. Also new grown early potatoes.

What is your favourite plant/flower?

Again hard to pick one but peonies are wonderful.

If you were a plant you would be a ...?

Climbing bean - for the view and because I would be delicious

And finally John, can you give us your 'Top Tips' on getting started with growing your own fruit and vegetables.

1. Salads (leaves & lettuce) can be grown quickly and in a small area