[LottyLouis]

Hi all
I've grown veggies forever - but always in my back garden - and I've never had the need to net anything - ever. Now I'm a new allotment-type and I see everyone else nets everything. I've learned to my cost that there's a reason for this. Allotments are safari parks for all manner of beasties that want your veg!
My question concerns my seedling parsnips that will go out within the next few weeks.
Do I net them? Will rabbits/badgers/birds strip the leaves if I leave them open to the elements?   

[azubah]

Most wildlife seem to prefer brassicas and peas, but there is always a first time for them to take a taste for something else. We had sweet corn attacked for the first time by magpies last year.

[Ivor Backache]

Slugs are your main problem here, so sprinkle a few pellets to control.
With all new plants I have started to use polycarbonate tubes  from 2l pop bottles. Cut the top and bottom off and place the tube over the plant and push into the soil. Works for beans, beetroot, parsnip, peppers, small brassica. etc. and they are reusable. Cut a sharp 'crown' on the top if you think slugs are trying to climb over. Also gives protection against cold winds which are present at the moment.

[crh75]

I have found that parsnips are not too bothered by pests.  A bit of carrot root fly damage but that is more cosmetic really.  I would be more concerned about planting your parsnips out before the main tap root touches the bottom of your pots causing them to fork.