[EddieJ]

They aren't getting my carrots this year!!!



The frame is constructed using 10mm reinforcing rod, welded at the corners and posts.
I then wrapped it with terram 1000 that I happen to have plenty of, which is stapled around the base of the bed, and wired/sewn at the top. I then made a simple roll back cover for the top.

Total cost, approx £12.00  and it should last for ever.

[arugula]

You can't say that isn't secure, but does the terram let enough light in?

[EddieJ]

Its seems pretty good as far as light goes.
I really only have the top fitted at the moment to stop the seed bed from drying out so quickly in this dry weather. It's quite surprising what a difference it has made in that respect.  It also appears to retain quite a balanced and warm temperature throughout the day.
I'll probably remove the top once the seeds are up and growing. 

[Trillium]

Interesting idea. How tall is the unit?

[EddieJ]

Interesting idea. How tall is the unit?

I really wasn't very sure about how high to make it as there seems to be so many differing opinions about how high carrot fly can or can't travel, so I opted to make the sides 800mm high.
I guess that if the unit was kept permanently covered, then this height could be reduced to pretty much what ever you like. Time will tell I guess.

[EddieJ]

but does the terram let enough light in?

I pulled the first ones from the unit a few weeks ago, and this is an example of the  general size of them.

I reckon that it was well worth all the effort.

[arugula]

Obviously it does let enough light in.

[Trillium]

Good result. I sometimes think it's better to overcompensate when dealing with pests than undercompensate.

[EddieJ]

On reflection I do need to modify it.

It was getting to hot inside, which didn't help the watering aspect.

It could have been lower, as weeding was made difficult.

And perhaps it was a bit dark, as whilst being incredibly green and lush, the top vegetation was probably around 1' high, so I guess that it was after more light.

[sunshineband]

But all in all not bad for the prototype 

[DD.]

Foot high foliage is OK for carrots - nothing wrong with that.

[Endymion]

Foot high foliage is OK for carrots

That's what our carrots thought too.

We got back from our holiday to find they've burst through the fleece they were covered with.  :blink: Maybe it was pegged down too well.