Key facts
- The site comprises over two hundred and fifty plots (this number can vary, as large plots may be split.) The site plan shows layout.
- The soil is composed of fertile, alluvial plain deposits associated with the River Taff, improved by generations of manuring, liming, turning, and by general cultivation.
- In common with all other Cardiff sites, and as under the Allotments Acts, gardeners are free, and have the right to use all aids to assist the effective cultivation of their plots as are licensed for sale to the public.
- Owing to the perhaps unfortunate abundance of habitat on less well-tended plots, high rainfall, and mild local climate, the site has a teeming population of slugs and snails, and so gardeners are advised that “alternative” methods of control are, as a plain matter of fact, generally seen to be limited in effect.
- Three large plots are let to Riverside Community Gardens.
- Plot sizes vary between about seventy-five and two hundred and twenty-five square metres.
- The site is managed by an Association, (Pontcanna Permanent Allotments Association – “PPAA”) under a Local Management Agreement with Cardiff Council.
Site benefits
Plot holders’ entitlements are as stated and implied by our Tenancy Agreements. That is, to their plot, to a right of access, to a water supply where the site has one, and to car parking where this is provided.
However, PPAA Committee or volunteers will, when possible, arrange for further benefits such as:
- A supply of manure and wood chip for paid-up, full members of PPAA, to the pens at each end of the site.
- A conditional right, as above, to enter the annual draw for a bed in the communal poly tunnel. Details are announced near the time, usually at the end of the year.
- A seasonal supply of such as seed potatoes, onion sets, and garlic – if volunteers are available – from the shop.
- This website and a FaceBook account.
We’re all instructed by the Council to:
- Remove all waste material from site ourselves, including any plant material which isn’t for composting.
- Keep plots weed-free, and clear of untidiness, which will harbour pests, causing problems for neighbouring gardeners.
- Keep all access paths between plots open. Use of herbicides is permitted on site, so may be used for this purpose, and to clear obstructed portions. If anyone doesn’t want this happening on a path adjoining their plot, then they should make sure that it’s completely free at all times.
- Number our plots clearly.
- Apply for consent to PPAA Committee for the putting up of sheds, greenhouses, etc.
- Keep dogs on leads or tethered at all times.
- Keep children closely supervised at all times, and not allowed to wander the site.
- Lock the gates immediately after entering or leaving site.
Some things that we’re not allowed to do:
- Have fires of any kind.
- Plant or maintain any conifer, broadleaf (includes bay trees), or willow tree. That is, not keep a self-seeded one, or another already growing.
- Allow any fruit tree to grow to more than four metres in height.
- Bring tyres or other polluting materials onto site.
- Put up fencing or hedging without consent.
- Block tracks with parked cars.
- Use any significant area of our plot for a purpose other than growing things envisaged by the Allotment Acts.
Theft etc.
Plot holders are strongly advised not to keep high value items such as power tools on site. Sheds are then best left unlocked, as the damage caused by break-ins is likely to be more expensive than anything stolen. Site security has been improved, but determined thieves will always get in from time to time.
PPA Website Team
