Brassicas Roots Eaten

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Colin2016
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Checked brassicas growing in netted tunnel thought they had been clown over, inspection showed the roots had been eaten.

There was a hole in the ground where the roots should be.

I know I have moles but thought they did not eat plants just worms.

Would rats attack from underground as no sign of disturbance on top?

Any ideas?
Westi
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Rats could be taking advantage of the mole runs, saves them digging & they are pretty clever.
Westi
Colin2016
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That's interesting Westi.

Any idea if rats leave a hole without any build up of soil?
Westi
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Yep they do Colin. When I had big bites out of the lower toms with distinctive teeth patterns I went into Sherlock mode & traced back to find where they were getting in. The entrance was outside the tunnel, under the membrane on the fence edge & beside a fence post. It was just a hole beside some bigger stones I had put beside the fence with no soil mound. Threw those stones into the tunnel stamped it down & some more similar security measures along the path.

They are back this year & trying to find a new way in, but to date only evidence outside as also buried plastic netting all around the tunnel - triple rolled before burying. Along with peppermint oil as another deterrent. Working to date & my sinuses are well clear but my eyes water a fair bit when I open the tunnel door! :)
Westi
Colin2016
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Thanks for the info Westi, will have to do a bit of reteach to find ho they are getting in.
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