Row covers

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To use a row cover, simply cover your crops at planting time, being sure to leave ample space between the fabric and the plant, and bury the edges in the soil or securely weigh the sides down. The fabric will act as a barrier between the plant and the pest. Remove the cover for watering and feeding and immediately replace it each time.

This method is excellent for preventing cabbage loopers and carrot rust flies from invading your garden. If they can’t land on your plant to lay eggs, then your crops will be safe from their offspring.

Row cover is easy to find, simple to use and inexpensive. You can expect a few seasons of use from it, so at the end of the season just fold it up and tuck it away until it’s needed again.