The at-home horticulture-er has become a popular thing since Earth Day, global warming, and other eco-friendly topics have been on the rise.
Plastic in the oceans, excessive carbon emissions, endangered species… anyway… we are not here to talk about all of that… (although, it does play a role in the rise in popularity of growing carrots at home…) we are here simply to talk about your carrots. And ways you can best care for your carrots at home.
Since a lot of people out there are new at this… as we were not raised by farmers like our parent’s parents likely were… we use our great, wise, knowledgable friend… the Internet.
Oh, the great cumulative wisdom of all… use wisely, consider your unique circumstances, and learn from others who have hands-on experience to give you… but these tips below should get you well on your way to happy, healthy carrots, home-grown style.
1. Cover
One of the worst pests on the planet for carrots has literally gotten its name from them because it’s so bad for them… the ominous carrot fly. This fly lays its eggs on the topsoil of carrots.
The larva hatch and eat away at the root of the carrot… I mean, really… who doesn’t like a carrot… If you cover your carrots, assuming you are planting them outside… then you will have virtually no problems with this oh-so-pesky-pest.
The cover will need to be clear, in order to let light through. It will need to be easily removable and replaceable because you will need to be able to remove it to water the carrots regularly… and it will need to be held down along the edges, mostly secured, entirely is not really necessary. This will protect your darling carrots for their entire lifespan, and you will be sure to be eating healthy, fresh, uncontaminated carrots for that entire season.