This year we are trying something new in the vegetable garden to help ward off pests. Last year my kale was eaten up by caterpillars. We used B.t. spray which did help. However, we had to continually reapply B.t. This year we decided to try row covers!
Row covers can be used for a variety of reasons. When there is still a chance for frost, row covers help protect the plants from freezing. Row covers can also help shade cooler weather crops in the hot summer months. Pests are less likely to get to vulnerable crops if row covers are used.
I purchased Harvest Guard Row Cover which is basically just a sheet of garden fabric. It is easy to cut into the desired length. The fabric is lightweight and does allow sunlight and water through all while protecting against insects and birds.
Row covers can be laid over the crop or over a support. We had chicken wire on hand so I didn’t purchase the support hoops. Hubby just made a semi-circle with the chicken wire to make a tunnel. We then laid the row cover over top of the chicken wire and tucked the edges of the fabric under the wire. Since the chicken wire has sharp edges, it held the fabric in place!
The row covers have been in place for one week and the kale has doubled in size! So far, no caterpillars! The row covers can also be used over and over again!
Make sure you checkout my other gardening posts!
Latest posts by Renae Chiovaro (see all)
- Last Minute Batgirl Costume - October 22, 2016
- Agnes & Dora: Comfortable & Affordable Clothing - September 19, 2016
- Life is a Highway - September 17, 2016
