Our Plot by Cleve West

'Our Plot'
"…… allotments are not only about growing food. They are a way of life."

With several Chelsea and RHS gold medals under his belt and a reputation as one of Britain's top garden designers, some might be surprised that Cleve West’s first foray into the book world is a book about allotments. Those who know him well will expect nothing less, for Cleve is not only a talented garden designer he is also a true allotmenteer.

His passion for his allotment - and its three sheds - shines brightly through 'Our Plot', a book which is full of practical commonsense. He points out that working an allotment needs perseverance and warns that a large proportion of new allotment tenants give up within a year. His aim is to help people realise that an allotment is a commitment – or as he puts it: "It's like keeping a pet, only without all the vet's bills." Cleve became interested in the world of allotments well before the 'grow your own' trend became fashionable. Indeed, his first tentative idea about writing a book applauding the benefits of growing your own food was rebuffed by publishers and it has taken a decade and a change in attitude, to see his dream realised.

Cleve and his partner Christine have worked their plot at Bushy Park Allotments for the last ten years. 'Our Plot' introduces the reader to his fellow allotmenteers the ups and downs of allotment life and the pleasure of growing, sharing and eating fresh organic food. As Cleve points out, the book is not a definitive guide to growing vegetables, if anything 'Our Plot' is a delightful introduction to the world of growing your own food, keeping fit and finding peace and contemplation all at the same time.

There are easy to follow sections on Vegetables and Herbs, Flowers and Fruit and recipes as well as troubleshooting tips. The sense of community, known especially to those who keep allotments, is also highlighted and there is a chapter on children and how you can stimulate their interest. There are some brilliant tips for successful growing – and delicious cooking – and plenty of advice of the what-not-to-do variety. He also reminds us of the pressures on our environment with a wake-up call in the form of his chapter on 'The Future' which makes sobering reading.

'Our Plot' contains excellent illustrations – which include Cleve's own photographs and drawings and photographs by Cleve’s cousin, gardener photographer Derek St Romaine.

Finally, there is a lovely tribute to his late mum, to whom the book is dedicated. Very fitting in many ways for allotments are about family and lasting friendships where growers and gardeners can come together and enjoy the fruits of their labours – bringing home the fact that allotments are as much about the community as growing food.

'Our Plot' by Cleve West is published by Frances Lincoln Ltd.,  www.franceslincoln.com - and is on sale in hardback at £20.00.