National allotments week takes part in the second week of August.

This year National allotment week runs from 10th-16th August 2009

The aim is to raise the profile and positively promote the activity of allotment gardening to all.

Did you know that councils in England and Wales have a statutory obligation to provide allotments for their residents? If you can gather together 5 like minded people in your area, then you can apply to your local authority for an allotment garden.

The benefits of allotment gardening are huge. Here are just a few!

• Ability to grow and eat fresh, seasonal produce
• Free exercise!
• Chance to get outdoors
• Therapeutic and proven to reduce stress
• Build communities and friendships
• Perfect way to spend quality time together as a family
• Saves you money on food
• Reduces food waste and packaging
• Helps to preserve the land and attract wildlife

What could you do to celebrate national allotments week this year? It’s not to late to plant a few seeds and is a wonderful activity to get children involved with.

If you already have an allotment, then help spread the word by giving people access to your space, showing your produce or organising a plant sale.