Point 1
First of all, only buy the tools that you need and only when you need them. A fork, spade, rake, hoe, trowel and watering can are the basics.
Point 2
Start your compost heap immediately. A 4ft by 4ft box, 4ft high with slatted sides to hold the compost is ideal. It should stand on the soil and be covered by an old carpet or blanket to keep it warm but breathing. Almost anything organic can be used, even perennial weed roots. Lay your plant material on the heap in six-inch thick layers with a thin layer of soil or an accelerator (chemical to speed up decomposition) in between. Earthworms and microbes in the soil will convert the plant material into humus, which is an essential ingredient of healthy soil because it contains nutrients and improves the soil’s structure. A good hot heap will produce humus in a few months. You need two heaps - one composting and one being built.
Point 3
For you back’s sake do not rush the digging. Spread it out, preferably during the Autumn, although any time when the ground is reasonably dry is alright.
Point 4
Weedy plots can be difficult. There are several ways to tackle them and inexperienced gardeners should seek advice from the Allotments Officer. On no account should weeds and topsoil be removed from the plot. They are part of it and a most valuable resource. The top inch or two of soil contains millions of microbes which are vital to soil fertility. Shake soil off weeds and compost the weeds.
Point 5
When digging, ensure that the roots of all perennial weeds like dandelion, dock and couch grass are removed. Breaking them up produces more plants. They can be composted separately in black plastic bags.
Point 6
Mulch helps to keep down weeds and conserve soil moisture.
Point 7
Start growing seeds in the open when the soil warms in late April/May but don’t be hasty. Far more crops are lost by sowing in cold, wet soils than by delay.
Point 8
You will need to water transplants most years but there is generally little point in watering established crops because you can never apply the same amount as a good drop of rain. Wetting the surface only brings roots to the surface instead of rooting deep for moisture and nutrients.
Point 9
Aim to get a selection of root and leaf vegetables, soft fruit and, if you like them, flowers for cutting or to brighten your plot. When you have something of interest all year round you are a good gardener.
Point 10
If you are on a site with an Association, play a part in their activities - the good sites are those with active members. If there is no Association, join one on another site and get the benefit of cheap seed, fertiliser and tools.
