Problems under the fleece

[Digger-07]

I have just removed the fleece covering my brassica plants and found an infestation of aphids on most of the cauli's. Not many on the other plants but I am wondering if the advantages of fleece keeping pigeons and caterpillars of the plants is outwayed by the deformed leaves and stunted plants covered with greenfly.

[Paulottie]

Brassica aphids are usually grey. Spot of Derris should help.

[rustylady]

If you just want to keep pigeons off your brassicas, then use net, not fleece. Guy on the plot next to mine uses old video tapes strung between canes and this seems to work well. My big problem last year was whitefly, and I've no idea how to stop/get rid of them without spraying which I don't want to do.

[poozie]

Hi digger-07, maybe try enviromesh or a very fine netting instead, or a larger netting small enough to stop cabbage whites. I wonder sometimes if the light is blocked a bit by fleece and i also wonder about if it is as breathable as it claims.

I think stressed plants succumb to aphids quicker than healthy ones. I find the most organic but effective way of dealing with the pests is to squash them with my fingers. YUM!

None of my plants do well under fleece. I only use it for frost protection and then I uncover them on warmer days.

[Snadger]

I have just removed the fleece covering my brassica plants and found an infestation of aphids on most of the cauli's. Not many on the other plants but I am wondering if the advantages of fleece keeping pigeons and caterpillars of the plants is outwayed by the deformed leaves and stunted plants covered with greenfly.

Problems under the fleece!......... Sounds a bit like an Agony Aunt may help!