Hands working the soil among allotment plants

South Reading

Grow something good

A community of 82 allotment plots just off Hartland Road—growing food, sharing knowledge and looking after a little corner of Reading.

A place to grow

Goddard's Farm Allotment Site sits in South Reading, just off Hartland Road. Our plots are rented from Reading Borough Council.

Whether you are new to allotments or have been growing for years, this site brings together practical guidance, committee news and useful information for our plot holders.

Apply for an allotment through Reading Borough Council

Grow through the year

Reading sowing calendar

A practical guide for our local conditions. Choose a month to see what can be started under cover, sown directly or planted out.

Allow for a late frost

Reading has a relatively mild southern climate, but exposed allotment plots and low spots can still catch a late frost. Use late April as a working guide, then check the forecast. Keep tender plants—such as courgettes, beans, sweetcorn, squash and tomatoes—protected until the risk has passed; mid-May is the safer planting-out point.

September

Make the most of warm soil while preparing crops for shorter days.

Under cover

Start protected

Direct sow

Sow on the plot

This month

Plant and prepare

Treat this as a guide: varieties, soil temperature and the weather can shift sowing dates by several weeks. Always check the seed packet and use cloches or fleece when conditions are marginal.

For the other end of the season, the first autumn frost in Reading is often around late October or early November, but tender crops may need protection from mid-October.

Noticeboard

Latest news

Updates, events and committee information for plot holders.

Sunday 4 October

Annual General Meeting

Join us at the 2026 AGM

2.30pm · near the sheds at Goddard's Farm Allotments

All plot holders are warmly invited to review the past year, share views and ideas, and help shape the year ahead.

The existing committee will stand down at the meeting and may stand for election again. We would be very pleased to hear from anyone interested in joining the committee.

Please come along—your views and support matter.

Eight winners from the 2026 Goddard's Farm Produce Competition holding their certificates and produce

Summer social

23 August 2026

Produce Competition winners

Thank you to everyone who came along, shared food and helped make the afternoon such an enjoyable occasion—and congratulations to all our winners, runners-up and entrants.

Around the site

Find your way around

The site map shows plot numbers, paths, roads, parking, water points, the shed and wildlife area.

For plot holders

Practical guidance

Simple ways to help everyone enjoy the site safely and successfully.

Main gate & parking

Keep the main gate locked at all times. Please park considerately to make the best use of the available space.

Only use internal roads briefly for loading and unloading so access remains clear.

Toilet & water

Leave the toilet as you would wish to find it. The water is turned off during winter, so manual flushing is then required.

Site water is not drinkable without boiling. Keep troughs accessible, report leaks promptly and do not alter the plumbing.

Safety on site

Drive slowly and remember that children may be present. Secure tools, cover cuts and wash hands before eating.

In hot weather, drink plenty, wear a hat and sunscreen, and take regular breaks. Use eye and hearing protection with machinery.

Your plot

Clearly display your plot number, maintain the surrounding paths and keep on top of weeds before they set seed.

Do not pick produce or remove anything from another plot without the plot holder's permission.

Waste & fires

Compost suitable material on your plot. Take non-compostable waste home or to Smallmead Recycling Centre.

Fires are a last resort for wood or woody prunings during the permitted season. Be considerate and extinguish them fully before leaving.

Looking after soil

Avoid working wet or frozen soil. Minimise compaction with beds, boards or temporary paths, and make as much compost as you can.

Consider no-dig methods, green manures and mulches. Test unfamiliar soil products on a small area first.

Watering wisely

A thorough weekly soak is generally better than a daily sprinkle. Prioritise seedlings and recently transplanted plants.

Water early or late, mulch to reduce evaporation, and use shade or windbreaks where helpful.

Pesticides & wildlife

Only use approved products and keep them securely at home. Spray in still conditions and avoid times when pollinating insects are most active.

Check the product's MAPP number with the Health and Safety Executive before use.

These are friendly guidelines intended to help plots succeed and prevent our actions affecting neighbours. If you need advice, ask another plot holder or raise it at a meeting.