10 Unusual Crops to Grow on Your Allotment

Do you want to add some excitement to your allotment garden? Are you tired of growing the same old vegetables year after year? If so, it’s time to try something new and exciting! Here are 10 unusual crops that will add some spice to your garden and your dinner plate.

1. Blue potatoes Yes, you read that right – blue potatoes! These vibrant spuds are not only eye-catching, but they’re also packed with nutrients. They contain a high concentration of anthocyanin, a powerful antioxidant that can help reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.
   
   
2. Purple carrots If you think carrots are only orange, think again. Purple carrots are a fun twist on the classic root vegetable. They’re not only beautiful but also high in anthocyanin, like blue potatoes.
   
   
3. Romanesco broccoli This funky-looking vegetable is a cross between broccoli and cauliflower. Its pointy, lime-green florets grow in a spiral pattern, creating an otherworldly appearance. Romanesco broccoli is not only beautiful but also packed with vitamins and minerals.
   
   
4. Lemon cucumbers If you love cucumbers but want to try something new, give lemon cucumbers a try. These cute little veggies are shaped like lemons and have a mild, sweet flavor. They’re perfect for slicing into salads or pickling.
   
   
5. Purple cauliflower Like purple carrots, purple cauliflower is a colorful twist on a classic vegetable. Its vibrant hue comes from the same anthocyanin that gives blue potatoes and purple carrots their color.
   
   
6. Ginger Ginger may not be a vegetable, but it’s a fun and easy crop to grow in your allotment. The ginger root grows underground, and the plant produces beautiful green leaves. Fresh ginger is a great addition to stir-fries, curries, and smoothies.
   
   
7. Edamame Edamame is a fun and healthy snack that’s easy to grow in your garden. These young soybeans are packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. Serve them as a snack or add them to salads and stir-fries.
   
   
8. Purple sprouting broccoli If you’re a fan of broccoli, give purple sprouting broccoli a try. This variety produces long, thin stalks topped with clusters of small purple buds. It’s not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals.
   
   
9. Celeriac Celeriac is a funky-looking root vegetable that’s often overlooked. Its knobby, brown exterior hides a delicious and versatile interior. Use celeriac in soups, stews, and roasts for a unique and flavorful twist.
   
   
10. Kohlrabi Kohlrabi is a member of the cabbage family, but it looks more like a turnip. Its bulbous stem can be green, purple, or white, and its flavor is mild and sweet. Use kohlrabi in salads or roast it for a tasty side dish.
    
    
    

Growing unusual crops on your allotment can add excitement, variety, and even nutrition to your gardening experience. By trying out different plants, you can expand your skills as a gardener, learn about new flavors and textures, and contribute to biodiversity.

From the sweet potato to the tomatillo, there are plenty of options to explore beyond the traditional vegetables found on most allotments. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try something new. Who knows, you may discover a new favorite crop or surprise your friends and family with a unique dish made from your home-grown produce.

In addition to the benefits of growing unusual crops, it’s also worth noting that many of them are hardy and can thrive in less-than-perfect growing conditions. This can be especially helpful for those with smaller plots, limited sunlight, or other challenges. With a bit of research and patience, you can find crops that are well-suited to your allotment and climate.

So, whether you’re a seasoned allotment gardener or just starting out, consider adding one or more of these unusual crops to your garden. You may be surprised at what you can achieve and the rewards that come from growing something unique and delicious.