SPROUTS are not just for Christmas, believes Steve Amos of the Adhurst Estate Allotments Association.
He said: “I know they get a bad reputation, but what a super veg – and super-easy to grow.
“Even if you don’t have a veg plot they can easily be grown in a border as they are quite the plant.
“They are quite an investment of time, though. Sow seeds in March/April time into modules and then plant out when strong enough, remembering to secure in well as they can catch the wind and blow over.
"They are also readily available in garden centres in spring as plugs ready to go.”
Mr Amos recently showed some new tenants and the association’s landlords around the allotments.
He said: “I was really proud with what everyone said, that despite being so wet what a wonderful site we have and how great the plots are looking.
“I have to say all the hard work that goes into individual plots, and also the site maintenance, is really worth it when people have such nice things to say.
“I know we have mentioned it before but the benefits of being outside, and especially gardening, are plentiful, not just from the perspective of being able to grow veg and flowers.”
Mr Amos thinks gardening or keeping an allotment allows people to get away from the stress of everyday life.
He said: “A real common thread is mental wellbeing, so for me being able to offer people that option is very humbling when you hear some of the troubles and tragedies some people have endured.”
On January 16, Herne Farm Community Centre will host the Petersfield Potato Sale from 2pm until 5pm.