Allotments are enjoying a renewed popularity because people want to know exactly what they're eating, save money, eat seasonally and save on carbon footprints. As well as men, more and more women are taking up the challenge to create their own sustainable food source with allotments, as well as experiencing the enjoyment of seeing things grow, not just fruit and veg but flowers. As well as potatoes and sunflowers, exotic plants such as ginger and pak choi are being grown and people are running businesses from their allotment produce, tapping into the locally-sourced, seasonal food market. Gordon Thorburn shows how to make the best from your allotment or even a veg patch with tips on natural bug deterrents, companion planting (save your cabbages by planting marigolds amongst them) and a handy seasonal planner, as well as must-try recipes.The photographer is Sarah Cuttle.