ASK DIARMUID

QIplanted 25 healthy, young, nursery-grown sweetcorn plants in a block formation in my raised bed. Two days later, I only had two – the rest had disappeared. Were they eaten by something? If so, what might it be? Do you have any advice on how I can prevent it happening again?

I’m a no-dig gardener so I don’t want to use chemicals if it’s avoidable.

Ruth, vie email

AYes,

it’s likely they were hoovered up either by birds, squirrels, mice or even badgers – this is a tasty crop!

Snails and slugs love to tuck in as well, but you would usually see some remains of the plant, if only some shredded leaves. I would suggest covering your crop in a fine mesh. Netting with large holes can be detrimental to wildlife with birds getting themselves caught up in it, but finer fleeces or mesh should be fine.

Secure tightly on the ground to keep out mice and hedgehogs.