Cottonmill and Nunnery Allotment Association

Gardening results in a mass of vegetable waste matter which is a nuisance to get rid of - it's inconvenient and often smelly and wet so it is difficult to take to the dump. Burning it can be unsociable to other allotmenteers and neighbouring households, and is now subject to new rules by the council. Composting what you can is a greener option; no petrol or smoke involved.

But vitally, you are returning nutrients that you have removed by growing vegetables. in the first place. And the bonus is that you end up with a rich humous that is great for conditioning your soil and returning nutrients to it.

This is not rich in nutrients but it makes excellent mulch and soil conditioner. The most common method seems to be to use the bin liner method.

Alternatively, store it in a compost heap. A wire enclosure will work, but is slower. You can speed up the process by shredding the leaves or adding grass clippings and mix well.

Secondly, you have a choice of making your own or buying a ready made bin. Making your own is obviously more work, but if you can get hold of old palletts, wood, doors etc. then they are more or less free. Have a look around your allotment site to see whether you want a fixed structure or one with removable sides.  I've found that it takes about 15 minutes to dismantle a pallet should you want to 'rebuild'. The main disadvantage with this method is that they do decay after a few years.