SPRING is getting tantalising closer, each day is getting slightly longer and tiny buds are appearing on the fruit bushes.

We just want to get out there, I know, it’s frustrating - just hang on in there. Take the time now to work on The Plan.

Find last year’s planting plan and sort out crop rotations.

If it’s your first season you probably won’t know what happened last year, your plot will more than likely have been a jungle, so don’t stress it.

For any allotmentier the most important thing is to grow things you and your family like eating.

There’s no point growing lettuce if you hate salad, so make a fruit and veg wish list.

I usually keep it simple when it comes to plans, I number each bed and then work out what to plant from what I planted last year.

This year I’m getting over having an operation on my shoulder, so mostly for therapy, I thought I’d do a bit of a sketch of my plot instead.

I’m on a sick note and I’m going around the bend with boredom so this was a pleasant way to spend an afternoon.

The most important thing about making a plan, is sticking to it.

Once early summer arrives and you start getting excited to get things planted out, stick with The Plan!

Pests and disease easily build up in your soil by planting the same veg in the same spot, it’s not worth taking the risk.

Plus, making a little sketch on a grey drizzly day with a cup of tea and some biscuits is a rather lovely job.

It’s gardening but without the muck down your nails and aching back; plus if you have someone else flicking the kettle on – you’re on a winner.

My allotment to do list.

Wash out your seed trays to be ready for spring

Sow some onions and aubergine seeds in trays and leave on the window ledge.

Feed your birds, encourage them to your plot. Hang out nuts, seeds, fat balls and then in the spring and summer they will feel quite at home munching on your pests.

If you have any allotment queries, email: vixlot@outlook.com