Nettles are a sign of fertile soil :-)

I'd agree with Ned, forking out that area of nettles is not a huge job
and it's by far the quickest cheapest method. Then you can plant up your
beds late this summer. Jumble sales are good sources of second hand
tools and tough garden plants. Or put a card in a local shop.

As you fork the nettles out, put all the rocks, bits of rubbish ect to
one side. Save the rocks as they are useful if you want to build paths
etc later.

Janet.