looks like its bb shot.I guess 1/3 of the patch is eat up..my question is how to stop this without resorting to chemicals/poisen..I really want to have a chem free garden..please help with some advice...Thanks ED Veg guy from SE Ky

I make "bug spray" with:
chili sauce (the liquid type from the asian store (aka rooster sauce) hmmm. wonder if tabasco would work?
dish soap
squished garlic, 1 clove
works for everything
just dont wash it off...
i dont measure, just squirt some in to a 32oz squirt bottle
i spray about every two weeks as needed

After the chili bug spray, make your self a low tunnel hoop house and cover with the light Agribon and you'll keep out the critters.

It would be helpful if you can figure out what is eating the holes. Teeny holes might be flea beetles. Bigger holes might be cabbage worms or slugs. The row cover idea is a good one for flying insects (flea beetles or the pretty white moths that produce those cabbage worms), provided you get the cover on before the insects get started for the season. If your problem is slugs, the row cover will not help and may even hinder your efforts. Ask me how I know this...

My bet would be flea beetles from the description of the damage. I had that problem earlier and used insecticidal soap which worked pretty well, but I like the pepper/soap/garlic too--BTW, tabasco or one of the "louisiana hot sauces" does work. Row cover can be a big help once you get the problem under control.

I've tried that garlic, hot pepper, onion spray, but it made my brocchli taste horrible! Would that also do that the mustard plants?