My veg plot adventure starts here...

[Millymollymandy]

I wouldn't suggest cabbage growing for a newbie. Try some easy veg your first year such as .... carrots and parsnips......

Hadon 3M I have to protest here. Are you saying that because I did not get a single parsnip, and only managed a few measily carrot fly ridden carrots last year that I'm worse than a newbie!! ...foul play I say.

Erm well I managed to get 3, yes THREE parsnips last year and hundreds of those pest ridden carrots so I must be doing something right!?!

Cav as you can see you win some, you lose some, but half the fun is in the trying!

[MKG]

The carrots, after a long, hard talking-to (seemed appropriate for carrots) are in. Death To Carrot Fly notices have been posted. All local bunnies have been warned. Let battle commence!

[Andy Hamilton]

Well I know you have a copy of the good book to refer to Cav for more advice.

I have been planting carrots and onions together for the last couple of years and it really does seem to help deter pests. (companion planting, carrot fly is put off by onion smell and vis versa). Also yes dig up as many stones as you can. Earthing up can help as carrots can go a little green on top, oh and planting with radishes so that you know where they are. One radish between each carrot.

Carrot fly is generally attracted to the carrots when pulled so stave off pulling them until all are ready then store them all together in sand.