There is an annual plot judging competition, usually in June/July, with an official judge from the National Vegetable Society.

The Best Plot, regardless of size, as selected by an external Judge in late summer, is awarded the Victor Ludorum Trophy and there is a smaller trophy for the 2nd and 3rd place plot holders. The presentation of these is usually held at a Tea & Cake Social gathering in August/September

Judging Criteria

WAGA Guidelines for a good allotment plot are based on the criteria set by the National Allotment Association and obviously the main criteria is that one enjoys one’s allotment.

There is no expectation or requirement placed on any plot holder for their cultivation efforts to be measured by their success or otherwise in the Annual Judging Competition. The primary focus is for each plot holder to enjoy their plot and for their plot not to be neglected during the course of the year.

1. Quality of crops.    
   
   Plants should be free from disease, pests and damage, a broad range of food crops and flowers should be in evidence with the available growing space taken into account.
   
2. Condition of the plot.        
   
   Unplanted areas where crops have been harvested or about to be planted should be free from weeds and the soil should be of a good well cultivated condition.
   
3. Good workmanship  
   
   Soil between crops should be weed free, paths and other areas should be neatly edged and well maintained. Evidence of successional sowing will be given credit as so should good practise such as pinching out broad bean tips, protection from carrot fly. Intelligent use and sturdiness of plant supports where appropriate.
   
4. Condition of sheds, greenhouses and other structures. 
   
   Structures, including cold frames and cloches, should be neat, clean and well maintained. Use of plant supports crop protection also attract credit.
   
5. Environment friendly practises.
   
   Good use of compost bins, rainwater collection where possible and any other environmental/animal friendly practices will be given credit.
   
6. Originality of layout and planting. 
   
   Intelligent adaptation of the plot layout to suit the plot holder’s needs, use of companion planting, overall visual effect, cultivation of less common plants and use of no-dig or deep bed methods will all be given credit where evident.