Campus allotment

Our wonderful campus allotment

If you’re enthusiastic about being outside, plants and growing your own fruit and vegetables then we are here to tell you about the university’s very own campus allotment.

The campus allotment is a hidden gem on our Wivenhoe Park campus. It is located on far side of campus behind the Grounds barn.

We have a Green Thumbs student society who work throughout the year on our campus allotment at our Colchester campus. The aim is to grow their own produce and reap the benefits of being outside. For up to date news on what the society is working on at the allotment head to their Facebook page.

Some of the crops that the students have successfully grown or are currently growing include potatoes, raspberries, gooseberries, red currants, sweetcorn, tomatoes, artichokes, radishes, salad leaves, a variety of herbs, carrots, onions, beetroot, strawberries, chillies, peas, green beans. There are also a few fruit trees! They work together to grow the produce and share it between members.

Benefits of gardening:

• getting physical exercise
• being in fresh air
• getting sunlight
• being in an aesthetically pleasing natural environment
• good for your mental health
• you’ll meet likeminded people

Why growing your own food is sustainable:

• No plastic waste on your own fruit and veg
• No food miles
• Avoid pesticides
• Support insects and birds
• Can use your food scraps to turn it into compost
• Save money by growing your own
• How to get involved

Anyone can join, including students, staff and members of the public, you are welcome at any point during the year. No prior gardening experience or specialist equipment is necessary. We'll be happy to show you what we've learnt and help provide you with opportunities to develop your own knowledge and skills. To join the society visit the SU student society page.