You can spread the cost of our course with Interest Free Credit on selected courses**.
This is exclusively available for a limited time by calling us on 0800 083 9191 or 01409 220 777.
Horticultural Correspondence College Limited is registered in England no. 03819370. Lyne Akres, Brandis Corner, Devon, EX22 7YH. Horticultural Correspondence College is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, register number 774548 and acts as a credit broker and offers finance through the Deko platform, which is provided by Omni Capital Retail Finance Ltd. Omni Capital Retail Finance Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Reference number 720279. Credit is provided to UK residents with a UK bank account, subject to age and status.
Allotment Gardening
Plotting a productive, well-tended allotment
Allotment gardening offers an escape from city life and rewards you with incredibly fresh, tasty and varied produce for much of the year – but getting started can seem daunting. Suitable for complete beginners and existing plot holders, this course will give you the confidence, skills and knowledge to find, prepare and maintain a productive, sustainable and well kept plot. Topics covered include how to get your plot ready for planting; understanding the soil type to deliver stronger growth and better yields; growing, harvesting and storing vegetables and fruit; and best practice during each month. The course is packed with practical advice and should prove both fun and rewarding!
- Gain the skills and knowledge to prepare and maintain an allotment or large vegetable plot
- Flexible home-study learning so you can fit your learning around your work and life
- Quality course material and excellent tutor support – to help you achieve your goals
- On successful completion you will receive an HCC Certificate
- Suitable for both non-professional and professional gardeners
- No previous experience needed
How the course works
Your first set of course materials will be sent to you when you enrol. You can start as soon as you want and progress through the course at your own pace, studying when and where you choose.
This flexibility makes it easy to fit learning around work and family commitments.
The extensive course materials have been developed by gardening experts and are clear and straightforward, so your studying is easy and enjoyable. As you complete each lesson, your tutor will promptly return your marked assignment with constructive feedback and guidance. (You can also contact your tutor or the support team for help at any point during your studies.)
The course includes all the required study materials.
There is no formal examination. On successful completion you will be awarded an HCC Certificate. You have 2 years to complete the course.
Support
We are proud of our friendly, caring ethos and aim to do all we can to help you succeed.
Our tutors are all experienced, highly qualified and passionate about sharing their love of their subject. You can phone or email your tutor throughout the course – to ask questions, for advice, encouragement or to draw on their wealth of knowledge.
You can also contact the support team who are here to help you Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
All learners are eligible for an NUS Extra card
What you will learn
Lesson 1
- Finding a plot
- Preparing the plot
- Planning your planting
- Tools for the job
- Preparing the beds
- Effects and control of weeds
- Sowing and planting
- A guide to composting
- Safe, healthy and environmentally sustainable practices
Lesson 2
- Soil profile horizons
- Physical properties of soil
- Organic matter
- Soil water
- Soil acidity and alkalinity
- Plant nutrition
- Growing media
Lesson 3
- Crops
- Companion planting
- Resistant varieties
- Vegetable storage
Lesson 4
- Top fruit
- Soft fruit
- Month by month guide
Study length
If needed you have 2 years to complete the course. Many students are able to complete this course in approximately 6-12 months*.
*Timescales are approximate and depend upon application and motivation.
Qualifications
There are no exams. On successful completion of this course you will receive an HCC Certificate*, graded to show the standard you have reached. The HCC’s reputation means this can be highly regarded on a CV and, combined with your portfolio of coursework, is evidence of your achievements (whether you are applying for a job or a more advanced study course).
* The HCC Certificate will be issued once you have successfully completed your course and finished your course payments.
Career opportunities/progression
Entry requirements
You do not need previous gardening knowledge or experience to enrol on this course
Enrol now
There are 2 ways you can enrol
- Pay the total course fee of £295 in one sum and also receive a special gift from our selection – free
- or
- Pay a deposit of just £95, followed by 4 instalments of £50
