The allotment is a work in progress. This bed is closest to what I have in mind. It contains various plants that thrive in the conditions and with each other. No maintenance is required other than a clear up in autumn and spring (and no watering). They create sufficient groundcover to keep the couch grass and bindweed at bay.

 The species are mainly perennials including Thyme, Babbington's Leek, Sage, Greek Oregano, Lemon Balm, Lovage, Chives, Fennel, Globe Artichoke, Garlic Cress and Rosemary. Several self-seeders have made their own way in: Spinach Beet, Garlic Mustard and Hedge Woundwort.

 The soil on the allotment drys out quickly, is fairly grainy and not high in nutrients which suits plants like these. In fact the more usual annual crops don't do well here. Lots of watering, weeding and soil improvement helps but I prefer to plant to the conditions with one or two exceptions (e.g. trench composting for Runner Beans). Having established the principle I will aim to expand this bed with more of the above and other species with similar requirements.