Dragon Carrot

There is perhaps nothing more satisfying than harvesting fresh heirloom carrots from your own garden and with the right preparation, growing carrots can be easy, even for first-time gardeners. Carrots prefer loose, well-draining soil that is free from stones and clumps, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Full sun is ideal for growing carrots, but they can also be grown in partial shade. In hot climates, some afternoon shade may be necessary to prevent the soil from drying out too quickly. It's important to avoid compacted soil, which can cause misshapen roots, and to remove any rocks or other debris that may impede root growth. Proper soil preparation, including tilling and adding compost or aged manure, is crucial for healthy carrot growth. Additionally, consistent soil moisture is important for producing high-quality, tender roots.

The average carrot seed germination time is 10 to 21 days, and therein lies the biggest challenge to growing carrots. Germinating carrots requires consistently moist, fine soil for the duration of the germination period. For this reason, we have found that the best way to plant carrot seeds is to interplant them with fast-growing radishes, which shade the soil thereby aiding the carrot seed germination. To sow carrot seeds in this manner, prepare the soil by tilling and removing any rocks or debris. Create furrows in the soil with a hoe or rake and sprinkle the carrot seeds thinly and evenly along the row. Sow radishes in the same furrow, spacing 1 to 2 inches apart. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water gently, taking care not to disturb the seeds. To promote even germination, keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds have sprouted. Once the carrot seedlings have emerged (usually around the same time that the radishes are ready to harvest), thin them to a spacing of 2 to 3 inches apart, depending on the variety. For planning purposes, keep in mind that carrots produce one carrot per seed. When thinning, be sure to allow plenty of room between the plants for the shoulders of the carrots to grow without becoming crowded. This can lead to cracked or misshapen roots.

Not recommended

Insect Pests

Carrots are susceptible to several insect pests, including carrot rust flies, aphids, cutworms, and wireworms. Carrot rust flies can be especially damaging, as their larvae tunnel into the roots, causing them to become misshapen and unappetizing. To control these pests, it's important to practice good garden sanitation, including removing plant debris and rotating crops to prevent buildup of pests in the soil. Insecticides, traps, and row covers can also be effective in preventing pest damage.

Diseases & Other Problems

Carrots are susceptible to several diseases, including root rot, leaf blight, and powdery mildew. Root rot can be caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil, and can cause the roots to rot and become discolored. Leaf blight is a fungal disease that causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves, and can spread rapidly through the garden. Additionally, carrots are prone to cracking and splitting if the soil becomes too dry and then is rapidly rehydrated. Proper soil moisture management, good sanitation practices, and crop rotation can help prevent these problems.

To harvest carrots, gently loosen the soil around the roots with a garden fork or trowel, taking care not to damage the roots. Lift the carrots out of the soil by the tops, and brush off any excess dirt. Trim the tops to 1 inch above the crown, and rinse the carrots thoroughly in cool water. To store carrots, remove any damaged or diseased roots, and store them in a cool, dark, and humid location. Carrots can be stored in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator or in a root cellar or cool basement, with the roots buried in damp sand or sawdust to maintain moisture. With proper storage, carrots can keep for several months.

CONSIDERATIONS:

Want to learn how to save carrot seeds? With a little preparation and care, it is easy to save your own carrot seeds from the plants you have growing in your garden! First off, since most gardeners harvest their carrots before the plants reach physical maturity, you may be wondering "Where do carrot seeds come from?" It turns out that carrots are biennial plants, producing their flowers and seeds in the second year of growth. To save seed from heirloom carrots, one must allow some plants to mature and bolt in their second year of growth. In climates with harsh winters, it is usually necessary to trim the tops and bring the roots indoors for the winter and replant them the following spring. In the second year, these plants will develop a tall stalk with a flowering head that produces seed. Keep in mind that carrot plants readily cross-pollinate with each other and with Queen Anne's Lace (a wild carrot), so it's best to isolate the plants or use only one variety to ensure the seeds stay true to type.

HARVESTING SEED:

After flowering, the seed heads should be left on the plant until they have dried and turned brown. Cut the seed heads and place them in a paper or mesh bag to dry for a few more weeks. Once the seeds have dried, shake the seed heads to release the seeds. Remove any chaff or debris from the seeds, and store them in a cool, dry, and dark location until ready to plant.

SEED LONGETIVITY:

Carrot seeds can remain viable for up to 2-3 years if they are stored in cool, dry, and dark conditions.