(Daucas carota) This cute, round, golf ball sized carrot is great fun to grow! Popular in Parisian markets, the round types are a great choice for clay or poorly draining soils as the roots don't grow very deep. Deep orange roots of this 18th-century French heirloom are great for fresh eating and its shape just begs for a dramatic presentation, whole or halved and roasted with an orange or maple glaze. Another fun choice for kids too! 60-65 days. TR
Seeds can be sown early spring (April) and into late July. Direct seeding is strongly recommended.
Note: Carrots prefer cooler ambient temperatures, deep, well-drained, light, sandy, and loamy soils with a neutral to slightly acidic (6-7) pH, and an even watering schedule (do not let the soil dry out before emergence!). Seeds may be sown every 3 weeks through mid summer.
PLANTING DEPTH:
1/4-1/2"
SPACING:
6-8 seeds per linear foot, thinning to 3/4-2" between plants in rows 16-24" apart.
EMERGENCE:
7-21 days @ soil temp 55-75F and even watering
LIGHT:
Full sun to part shade
FERTILITY:
Medium to high. While carrots do prefer well-prepared and fertile soil, avoid adding excess Nitrogen as it may lead to hairy and/or forked roots. Aim for a neutral to slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0-7.0. Acidic soils (pH below 6.0) are a no no for carrots!
Lower Nitrogen, medium phosphorus and higher potassium grow the best roots!
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
Remember that carrots prefer cooler temperatures, even water, and space. Keep em weeded!
If you find that your carrots are producing hairy forked roots, this means your soil is too heavy in Nitrogen.
Try to avoid growing carrots in a new, previously grassy area as wireworms will visit!
Use floating row cover to deter carrot rust flies and aim for a 3 year rotation to avoid blight.
