What jobs do I need to do in my allotment in August?

Ruth McNamee shares her top tips for sowing and growing in August.

It’s time to plant potatoes for Christmas. Garden centres should be selling seed potatoes now to grow these delicious winter treats. Plant three tubers to a 30cm to 40cm container or potato grow bag that is half full of compost. As the plant grows, keep topping up the compost until the container is full. The potatoes will grow in this extra compost. Make sure to protect the plant when the weather gets colder. Place in a greenhouse or put in a sheltered spot and cover with horticultural fleece. Keep watered regularly. There’s nothing nicer than enjoying your own homegrown potatoes for Christmas dinner.

Sow Swiss Chard now. I love the variety Fordhook Giant. As the name suggests, it grows up to 60cm tall so makes an impressive sight! You should get a good few pickings before the worst weather hits. Cover with a cloche later and hopefully the plants will stand all winter and put on masses of welcome new growth in the spring. It’s such a delicious and useful crop to be used all year round.

Keep on top of harvesting. Lots of crops such as French beans, peas, courgettes and spinach will need regular picking now. If plants set seed their job is done, and they stop producing.

Plot to plate

Nothing beats peas fresh from the pod for a hit green summery flavour, and don’t forget the leaves – pea shoots are tasty, too. This seasonal treat makes the best use of both and is perfect for summer picnics. Allow a handful of peas and of pea shoots per serving and mix them in a bowl with some finely sliced radicchio lettuce and twice as much olive oil as lemon juice then crumble pecorino cheese on top and serve.