Things may be winding down on the allotment in October, but there’s still plenty to do, including harvesting late crops, planting for next year and improving the soil

Harvesting

It’s time to harvest the last of the crops such as runner beans and courgettes, as well as pumpkins and squash. It’s also the time to harvest maincrop potatoes.

Sowing and planting

You can sow peas and broad beans now – why not try to sow ‘Aquadulce a particularly hardy broad bean variety. Rhubarb crowns can also be planted now; established clumps can also be divided. 

Staking

Brussels sprouts can blow over in heavy winds when leaden with crops, so stake them now with a sturdy cane to prevent this.

Improve soil

While the plot is relatively empty, it’s a great opportunity to improve the soil. This doesn’t have to be hard work – either sow a green manure, or spread a 5cm layer of well-rotted manure on top of it – worms will work it into the soil over the winter.