Join Us!

Are you interested in growing your own fruit and veg? Littleover Lane has a friendly community of plotholders and you will be given a warm welcome.

There is likely to be a waiting list for plots, so the sooner you contact the Secretary and register your interest the better!

Hopefully the Frequently Asked Questions here will address any concerns you may have.There is more detailed information available on the Plot holders' page, and if you still have questions don't hesitate to contact us.

How do I get a plot?

Simple. Contact the Secretary to register you interest. Once a plot becomes available, the Secretary will be in touch. You will have the opportunity to view the plot and if more than one is available, take your pick.

Is there a waiting list?

Yes! However, don't be put off; there is always a turnover of plots. People's circumstances change and plots are reviewed regularly to ensure they are being cultivated. It may take a few months to get a plot, but it is well worth the wait!

How much is it to join?

From October 2009 the price is £24 a year for a standard plot. This is well below the average for Derby. Also, many plots are not the standard size, and the price will reflect this. Rents are due at the end of October in advance.

What am I paying for?

Plot rents go towards upkeep of the site. The mains water supply has to be paid for, as does site security measures, and upkeep of other shared facilities such as the toilet block. Rents do not actually cover the full costs of upkeep and the Association relies on income from other sources sauch as the biennial open days to supplement it. The accounts are published each year by the Treasurer at the AGM.

Are there any additional costs?

Yes. You will be asked to provide a deposit at the start of your probationary period; this will include payment for a key, a set of Allotment Rules and Bye-laws, and plot rent.

Also, the plot you inherit may be totally dug over and ready to cultivate, or have structures such as sheds and greenhouses already on it. You may also inherit mature fruit trees or bushes. It is traditional for the new plotholder to pay the outgoing tenant a sum of money for such ‘fixtures and fittings’ that they leave behind, or if the plot has been well manured and dug over ready for you.

The Secretary will be usually be able to tell you what the outgoing plot holder is asking for these before you view the plot. The sum requested should then be negotiated between the incoming and outgoing tenants themselves. Please note the Management Committee does not get directly involved in these discussions, it is for you to decide if you wish to pay the sum requested.

Are there rules I should stick to?

When you become a member you will receive a copy of the Allotment Rules and Byelaws; please read these carefully, and abide by them at all times.

What if I can't keep it up?

When you first agree to take on a plot, it is for a probationary period of six months. This also applies if this is not the only plot you have on the site. This is to make sure you are able to commit the time and effort it takes to maintaining a plot (or a further plot); some people underestimate this and it is the most common reason for giving a plot up.

Your plot will be inspected at the end of your probationary period, and if cultivated you will then be issued a share certificate for that plot and become a full member. Please note; we do not expect your plot to be pristine at this point! We would expect to see evidence that you have prepared it and are at least ready to cultivate it, making allowances for the state it was in when you took it over and the time of year. If the plot shows no evidence of care or cultivation, the Committee may decline to make you a full member, your deposit will be forfeit and the plot will be offered to the next person on the waiting list.

What can I grow on my plot?

Are the allotments secure?