A view down the back lane of the HANDRAS site.

The Greenhouse

The Greenhouse is a place to share information, highlight the good things going on in our community and distribute news. Please check back regularly for updates as there may be something here you like.

If you have an idea for an article, or something you'd like to share, please email handrasweb@gmail.com with your ideas, or even an article for us to post. Any contributions will be credited to the original writer.

The Greenhouse

Order Your Spuds! Seed Potato Orders Are Now Being Taken in The Shed.

The moment we've all been waiting for is here! It’s time to plan for a truly delicious harvest, because The Shed is now taking orders for seed potatoes.

HANDRAS

Sep 212 min read

The Shed is Stocked! Onions and Garlic Sets Are Here!

The Shed is now stocked with onion and garlic sets, just in time for you to get a head start on a fantastic harvest. These are some of the most rewarding and easiest crops to grow, and whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, you'll be able to enjoy your own homegrown produce.

HANDRAS

Sep 213 min read

Protect Our Pollinators: A Guide to Spotting and Reporting the Invasive Asian Hornet.

The Asian hornet (Vespa velutina), also known as the yellow-legged hornet, is an invasive species that poses a significant threat to our native honeybees and other pollinators. With recent sightings in the UK, it's crucial that we all know how to identify and report them. The British Beekeepers Association (BBKA) is encouraging everyone to be vigilant.

Gary Wolstenholme

Aug 172 min read

Save Money on Tools: Are Off-Brand Garden Tools Worth the Risk for Your Allotment?

For the dedicated allotment gardener, having the right tools can make all the difference. But when you’ve already invested in a powerhouse battery system from a major brand like Makita, DeWalt, or Milwaukee, you’re faced with a dilemma: do you pay a premium for the brand’s specific, often-expensive gardening tools, or do you take a gamble on a more affordable, third-party alternative?

Gary Wolstenholme

Aug 164 min read

Extending Your Growing Season in Sheffield: Polytunnels and Greenhouses for Allotment Gardens

The British climate, with its unpredictable springs and early autumns, can often limit the growing season. This is where the magic of polytunnels and greenhouses comes into play, offering a sheltered haven that can significantly extend your harvesting window, allowing you to enjoy fresh produce for more of the year.

Gary Wolstenholme

Jul 199 min read

Handsworth and Richmond Allotment Society: Tenant User Guide

This guide summarizes key information from your Tenancy Agreement, Constitution, and other important schedules to help you enjoy your allotment.

HANDRAS

Jul 612 min read

A selection of fertilisers on display outside the shed

Maximising Your Allotment's Potential: A Guide to Targeted Fertiliser Application

This article delves into the optimal applications for a selection of popular fertilisers, that are available from The Shed site shop, helping you unlock your allotment's full potential.

Gary Wolstenholme

Jul 66 min read

Effective Weed Control Strategies for Allotment Holders Balancing Organic Methods and Herbicides

Weeds compete fiercely with your plants for vital nutrients, water, and light, and they can also attract pests and diseases that jeopardize your harvest. Thus, having a solid weed control strategy is essential.

Gary Wolstenholme

Jun 14 min read

Essential Strategies for Allotment Security: Secure Your Haven Against Theft and Vandalism

Securing your allotment should be a priority for every plot holder. In this guide, we’ll explore effective strategies to improve your allotment security with a focus on practical steps and real-world examples.

Gary Wolstenholme

May 234 min read

Composting Made Easy: Simple Steps to Reduce Waste and Recycle Your Garden Scraps

Composting is an effective way to manage organic waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden. For gardeners and allotment holders alike, understanding how to compost can significantly reduce landfill waste and improve soil quality.

Gary Wolstenholme

May 164 min read

Clever Ways New Allotment Tenants Can Harness Rainwater and Save Water

Managing water resources can be challenging, particularly when there’s no running water on site. Don’t worry! With some smart ideas for water conservation and rainwater collection, you can make the most of your allotment while caring for the environment.

Gary Wolstenholme

May 143 min read

Effective Strategies for Managing Field Horsetail on Allotment Plots

Field horsetail, often referred to as mare's tail, is an invasive perennial weed that can wreak havoc on allotment plots. With its tall, slender stalks and feathery appearance, it can quickly dominate garden spaces, overshadowing more desirable plants and reducing yields.

Gary Wolstenholme

May 74 min read

Unlock the Secrets of Companion Planting for Tomatoes and Watch Your Allotment Thrive

Companion planting is an exciting gardening technique that significantly boosts the success of your tomato plants.

Jenny McCambridge

May 73 min read

Getting Your Hands Dirty: A Beginner's Guide to Starting Your New Allotment Plot

This guide will take you through the essential steps to help you create a flourishing garden on your new plot.

Gary Wolstenholme

May 74 min read

10 Surprising Ways to Use Lavender in Your Garden and Beyond

Lavender is not just a beautiful plant; it is an incredibly versatile herb that can significantly enhance both your garden and home.

Jenny McCambridge

May 63 min read

Your Ultimate Guide to the Allotment Planting Calendar for Garden Success

Creating a thriving allotment isn't just about having a green thumb; it's about careful planning and understanding the right times to sow your seeds. Whether you are an expert gardener or a newbie, a well-structured planting calendar can significantly influence your harvest results.

Jenny McCambridge

May 63 min read

Order Your Spuds! Seed Potato Orders Are Now Being Taken in The Shed.

The moment we've all been waiting for is here! It’s time to plan for a truly delicious harvest, because The Shed is now taking orders for seed potatoes.