The judges will give marks using 4 main criteria. They will then total them up and give feedback on the scores. This can provide a starting point for plotholders to assess how they are doing and help them develop plans for future changes and improvements.

1: Plot Cleanliness (30 points)

• The judges will expect to see plots which are largely free of litter and weeds (particularly perennial weeds), with no piles of weeds or other vegetation lying around, and canes and other planting aids stored tidily and not left lying around.
• The cultivated area of the plot should show signs of being regularly and well maintained and the paths tidy; grass paths should be cut and edged.

2: Fertility, Health & Vigour (30 points)

• All Plants should be grown well, vigorous, sturdy and free from obvious signs of excess damage by pests, disease or weather. Marks will be given for the use of organic methods of pest control such as encouraging ladybirds.
  • The judges will observe whether the plotholder has taken steps such as:
  • Using organic spray and/or cutting down haulms to minimise effects of blight;
  • Pinching out tops of broad beans to inhibit black fly;
  • Use of collar or insect mesh to protect against cabbage root fly;
  • Barriers against carrot root fly;
  • The use of companion planting
• The judges will look out for signs of nutrient deficiency. Marks will be lost for crops left to go past their prime – unless it is made clear that they are being left for seed production.

3: Cropping (20 points)

• Crop protection. The judges will observe whether plotholders are using methods such as netting, fleece, enviromesh & deterrent/sacrificial planting; whether supports for plants that require them are properly positioned and sturdy enough to support the crop. Also any bird netting etc should be undamaged and properly positioned to afford protection to the crops over which they have been placed.
• Maximising use of space. The judges hope to see that there are no large vacant areas, nor excessive spacing between rows of crops. Where beds are used, planting distances will be expected to be smaller
• Range of crops. Plotholders need to show a good variety of crops and evidence of crop rotation i.e. Crops should be arranged so that crops in each family are planted together. There should also be signs that the plot is used to it full all year round (e.g. crops such as swede, leeks, sprouts)

4: Environmental Aspects (20 points)

• Composting. The judges will need to see well maintained compost bin(s) or heaps, recycling green waste from the plot
• Other recycling. The judges will observe whether renewable crop supports are in use and whether there is reduced use of single use plastics on the plot.
• Water Conservation. Evidence of good practice in water conservation includes mulching and water butts. The mulching may be, bark, straw etc. If there is a shed/ greenhouse there should be a gutter & downpipe into a water butt. It will also include signs of spot watering such as pots etc sunk into the ground alongside extra thirsty plants such as cucumbers and tomatoes.