Carrot Damage

[Black Wolf]

Just pulled some carrots today and there seems to be a little damage to them tho I'm not sure what has caused it.

The field the allotments are in is new tho it is next to an established allotment site...

Have attached photos of carrots - any advice much appreciated

[veggiechicken]

Looks like carrot fly Carrot fly / Royal Horticultural Society

[Alison]

They won't keep very well but you can cut out the damaged bits and eat the rest with no problems.

[WilliamD]

That's classic carrot fly damage as the others have said Black Wolf. And yes, chop out the black bits and the rest of each carrot should be fine. Be prepared to lose a fair bit though.

[WendyC]

I have found the only way to avoid damage is to completely cover the crop with enviromesh for the whole of the crop's life. There is a myth that a low barrier fence of enviromesh will keep them out, but it doesn't.
Interestingly I am lifting Flyaway at the moment and they have been the only ones with any damage where a fly must have got in. Earthing up to hide the root can help too.

[Aberdeenplotter]

I have found the only way to avoid damage is to completely cover the crop with enviromesh for the whole of the crop's life. There is a myth that a low barrier fence of enviromesh will keep them out, but it doesn't.
.

I totally agree

[Veggielot]

I used to get carrot fly every year. Since I started using enviromesh no problems, if you want carrots it is worth the investment.

[Black Wolf]

Ok thanks guys! Will get some insect netting over it next year plus rotate it to another patch. Surprised to get a pest like that so quickly. Had enough of the catapillers over the summer lol

[Two_Sheds]

Surprised to get a pest like that so quickly.

Not really surprising, because you're right next to an allotment where the fly will be endemic. They were just sat waiting for you

[Black Wolf]

Great so they are crafty carrot root fly then ;-)