BBC Gardeners' World

A new plot for ty tas crops

My journey into the world of gardening began with my grandfather in northern Italy. This inspiration led me to cultivate my very own natural oasis right in the heart of London. Together with my fiancé, we transformed our front yard into a flourishing edible garden, offering a year-round supply of fresh herbs and medicinal plants, which we utilise to concoct natural remedies, saving us money. Additionally, our modest backyard, spanning just 40 square metres, yields an impressive variety of fruits and vegetables.

Despite these successes, I have long aspired to secure an allotment to expand our endeavours. I am a firm believer in the critical role these urban green spaces play – not only in providing fresh produce but also as vital sanctuaries for insects and wildlife, which I am eager to protect and enhance.

Alessandro Vitale, AKA @_spicymoustache_, is an urban gardener who shares content online about growing food in any space, low-waste cooking using every part of fruit

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from BBC Gardeners' World

BBC Gardeners' World1 min read
BBC Gardeners’ World
Editor Tamsin Hope Thomson Designer Bonnie Bryan Sub-editor Jean Postle Photography Sarah Cuttle, Paul Debois, Jason Ingram Additional photography Marsha Arnold, Getty Images (p1, p86-87), Neil Hepworth, Caroline Hughes, Lynn Keddie, David Murray, Ti
BBC Gardeners' World3 min read
Plant Solutions Dry Borders
Deep shade Dappled shade Partial shade These clump-forming perennials produce pretty pincushion-like flowers in a range of colours, from white through dusky pinks to the rich ruby red of Astrantia major ‘Claret’ (pictured). Keep plants well watered d
BBC Gardeners' World6 min read
Containers Patio pots
Planting up your container is an easy, fun and creative process. Follow these simple steps to make sure your pot provides the right conditions for all your plants to thrive and that you arrange them in the best way to show them off to full advantage.

Related Books & Audiobooks