We are a Czech-Spanish family living in Bedfordshire, and this is our third year working fully no dig allotments. We actually have two no dig plots – one in Carlton and one in Harrold.
Before moving to the UK, we used to grow organically in Mallorca, though with traditional digging methods on very rocky soil. After living in London for three years, we moved to the countryside with a clear vision to continue cultivating organically – and started using the no dig method, as taught by Charles Dowding.
Our plots are 100% organic and provide us with vegetables all year round. For us, health starts in the kitchen – all organic matter from the kitchen goes into our compost heaps, along with additional compost we buy from an organic supplier here.
We grow a wide variety of vegetables and fruits – from basics like onions, garlic, broad beans, and potatoes to more specific crops like burdock root, salsify, parsley root, globe and Jerusalem artichokes, chicory (for coffee or forcing), herbs, edible flowers (some for us, some for insects), and much more.
Often, we harvest more than we need, so we share our produce with neighbours – along with our knowledge and passion for organic growing. It’s rewarding to help inspire others to move towards local, seasonal, and sustainable food.
For us, being organic, self-sufficient and in touch with nature is not just a lifestyle – it's a source of empowerment and joy. Time spent on the allotment is always a moment of peace and connection.
My email address for any no dig neighbours to get in touch: katka.mlejn@icloud.com
