If you will search 'row cover' here you'll find many discussions on them full of types and tips and sources.

They range from just buying inexpensive tulle at WalMart to ordering brand name Reemay Insect Barrier online from any of several sources. You want something very light weight so heat doesn't get trapped inside yet something that can be somewhat supported if wind and rain is a problem - as it would be in your zone I suspect.

But keep in mind that row covers aren't going to be of much help with root maggots since they are in the soil and do their damage there and most any light-weight netting is sufficient for bird protection. If you are seeing small green "inch worms" on your cabbage they are cabbage loopers not root maggots.

Dave

Check out Agribon.

Here is a link that might be useful: Agribon

I have to disagree with the statement about row cover being ineffective against root maggots. Root maggots are the larvae of a small fly which lays its eggs on the plants. When the eggs hatch, the larvae crawl down into the soil and feed on the roots. Installing row cover at the time of planting prevents the fly from reaching the plants and laying eggs on them. I have had good results using row cover to prevent maggots in radishes.

Jim

I buy and use nylon tulle, sold at fabric stores. I get them from HOBBY LOBBY.
They come in different colors and thightness. They are super light weight
and will stay in place, not blocking sun or water.I would just leave some wrinkle on the seedlings.
I have heard that the birds, rabbits, rats, ... wouldn't want to mess with it,
maybe it feels like a trap for them. But I think some crawlers might get in
from an openin and do the damage. Well those are low IQs. lol

The tulle thing is news to me (I have no idea what tulle is either, so if you can enlighten...). Do I just go to Walmart and ask for tulle? If they have more than one type, which one should I get?

I have had surprisingly many seedlings disappear this spring, I assume it is due to the very dry spring and the robins getting moisture anyway they can. I saw them. I bought a bird bath, and all my Reemay is deployed, but I need more cover.

tulle is a fabric sometimes used in wedding gowns, or dresses, if you are as old as I am you will remember tulle being used in crinoline slips, when you see the fabric you will recognize it, :)

go to walmart and go their fabric department and ask for tulle.

Alberta

thanks all for good info.

Wal-mart has been phasing out their fabric departments, so if it's a Wal-mart you haven't been to recently, you might want to call to see if they even have a fabric department left. Of the five in my immediate area, only one still has a fabric department, down from four as of a year and a half ago.

Tulle can also be found at most any fabric store - Jo-Ann, Hancock, or Hobby Lobby.

Trawl thrift stores for net curtains (make sure they don't have open-weave patterns in important places).

thanks.

Johnny's has a good variety of weights and sizes.

Lightweight fabric shower or polyester blended curtains also work well. The butterflies & stripes really livened up the garden early spring.

Make sure you're not using plastic. Mine aren't netting, but very lightweight and slightly heavier than purchased garden row cover blankets.

Corrine