{"id":2332,"date":"2019-06-06T09:33:52","date_gmt":"2019-06-06T09:33:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gardener.guide\/?p=2332"},"modified":"2020-01-22T09:02:34","modified_gmt":"2020-01-22T09:02:34","slug":"14-care-tips-for-carrot-plants","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gardener.guide\/14-care-tips-for-carrot-plants\/","title":{"rendered":"14 Care Tips for Carrot Plants"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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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.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plastic in the oceans, excessive carbon emissions, endangered species\u2026 anyway\u2026 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\u2026) we are here simply to talk about your carrots.  And ways you can best care for your carrots at home.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since a lot of people out there are new at this\u2026 as we were not raised by farmers like our parent’s parents likely were\u2026 we use our great, wise, knowledgable friend\u2026 the Internet.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oh, the great cumulative wisdom of all\u2026 use wisely, consider your unique circumstances, and learn from others who have hands-on experience to give you\u2026 but these tips below should get you well on your way to happy, healthy carrots, home-grown style.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Cover<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

One of the worst pests on the planet for carrots has literally gotten its name from them because it\u2019s so bad for them\u2026 the ominous carrot fly.\u00a0 This fly lays its eggs on the topsoil of carrots.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The larva hatch and eat away at the root of the carrot\u2026 I mean, really\u2026 who doesn\u2019t like a carrot\u2026 If you cover your carrots, assuming you are planting them outside\u2026 then you will have virtually no problems with this oh-so-pesky-pest.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The cover will need to be clear, in order to let light through.\u00a0 It will need to be easily removable and replaceable because you will need to be able to remove it to water the carrots regularly\u2026 and it will need to be held down along the edges, mostly secured, entirely is not really necessary.\u00a0 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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2. Water<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It is not a bad idea to keep about a 10 gal trash can sized container outside to collect rainwater for your crops.  You can cover the water, if you like, on non-rain days in order to try to keep mosquitos from laying their eggs in it\u2026 which\u2026 would not hurt the crops so much, but\u2026 seems generally ideal to keep pests out of it.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are using it every three days, as is about the right amount, you won\u2019t have any standing water issues, anyway.\u00a0 But, it doesn\u2019t hurt to keep the mosquito nests to a minimum, am I right?\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This water is great for crops, as one can imagine.\u00a0 It has none of the city treatment contaminants in it, and is mineral-rich\u2026 and\u2026 it\u2019s free.\u00a0 You can scoop a bunch out with a watering can, in order to spread it evenly and gently over your darling growing carrots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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3. Sun<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Carrots are sun babes\u2026 they like full sun\u2026 all the sun, all the time\u2026 that\u2019s what I always say.\u00a0 While they do not like being transplanted\u2026 if you have put them in a spot where they\u2019re not getting full sun\u2026 you may just have to do such a thing, because they really will not be at their happiest without things just so, in this regard.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The sun is a major food source for carrots.  Photosynthesis, that\u2019s right, baby.  Sunshine, carbon dioxide, and water are what this little plant needs to create its sustaining nutrients (its food).  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oxygen is, of course, created as a byproduct\u2026 but enough about our food, and back to this plants\u2026 it needs full sun\u2026 6 – 8 hours a day, and it\u2019ll be a happy camper for you, and grow big and robustly. \u00a0 \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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4. Positive Talk<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now this one may seem really silly to you\u2026 but, experimentally controlled research has shown, that positive talk encourages positive plant growth, and negative talk encourages plants death.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

IKEA actually was a proud sponsor of one of these experiments where the effects of bullying plants were measured.\u00a0 The Global News network online caught wind of the experiment and posted loads of blog-type information about it.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

People have made comments from around the world.\u00a0 I have also read suspicions that simply the inward admiration of onlookers has been a reason that plants closer to pedestrians have thrived more than those back behind line of eyesight.\u00a0 If you want to play it safe\u2026 love your carrots and let them know you do.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Consistency is another way we can show love to our young growing plants\u2026 this can go for times of positive talk and admiration, and even for watering times, too. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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5. To Prune or Not to Prune  <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

So\u2026 it makes sense that your carrots will want the room to grow\u2026 lots of room to spread their new-found roots\u2026 But, there is a theory that the more you cut and pull\u2026 the more you are releasing the beautiful fragrant aroma of carrot into the air for the dreaded carrot loving fly to find and love for its newfound home.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

So\u2026 I would recommend, if you are growing inside, have at it\u2026 if you are growing outside\u2026 I would simply try to space your seeds well when you are planting initially\u2026 if you start having real problems with this, then you can try pruning when you uncover the plants outdoors to water them.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Then recover before too much time passes, ideally don\u2019t leave them uncovered for more than fifteen minutes.\u00a0 Nature can be a bit of a reasoning process sometimes when it comes to these things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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6. Weed  <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Weeding is good because it keeps other flora (plant life) from stealing any nutrients or water from the carrots that you are wanting to grow.\u00a0 It also helps your garden look more organized.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Simplicity can be a beautiful, and very functional, thing.\u00a0 So, simplicity is the goal in your carrot garden.\u00a0 If you are growing indoors, you will not have weeds\u2026 yay!\u00a0 Fewer variables to control indoors.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You have ultimate control over the dirt you use, pests, moisture, and temperature!\u00a0 There are videos online of people who have grown them in buckets or minimum 8-inch deep pots.\u00a0 As long as you are keeping them in full sun, you are good.\u00a0 And, you get the added benefit of the extra oxygen put off inside your home.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oxygen is so good for you.  Ultimately, if they\u2019re outside, it is a good idea to pull any other weeds out from the seeds that naturally blow around outside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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7. Dirt <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The home you put your carrots in can have an impact on how your carrots grow\u2026 just like with people.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plants and people aren\u2019t all that different, you know.\u00a0 There are similarities and differences but in this case\u2026 the home shapes the carrot.\u00a0 Make sure your diet is somewhat loose.\u00a0 This way the root is able to grow straight down.\u00a0 If it is not loose, they will simply grow crooked, or fork off sometimes, in split directions.\u00a0 So\u2026 if you\u2019re going for the artsy, unique carrot\u2026 this may be something you prefer!\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll be sure to impress your friends with your corkscrew carrot salad, I\u2019m sure of it!\u00a0 But for the traditional at-home farmer\u2026 loose dirt, compost friendly, and well moistened, but not over watered creates a warm, supportive environment that your carrots will be able to thrive in\u2026 real grade-A Harvard carrots.\u00a0 Your carrots will be the best in the neighborhood.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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8. Harvest  <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When caring for your carrot plants at home\u2026 make sure you don\u2019t forget to harvest!  They complete their growth cycle in 2-3 months.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mark your calendar, as this is a way out and is easy to forget.\u00a0 If you do forget, or don\u2019t like the calendar approach\u2026 simply check the soil to see when they begin to poke slightly through the top of the soil revealing the orange (or whatever color you planted) of the \u201chead\u201d or \u201cshoulder\u201d of the carrot from below!\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This likely means that they are outgrowing their space and are ready to be pulled.  If you leave them in for too long, they will grow sweeter and attract pests.  This is not good for any garden.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you feel short on time, again, simply try to get a routine in place where every Monday, or every Saturday you check in on them to ensure they are moist enough and to see if they are ready to harvest.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For real efficiency, use a pattern for where you plant to know which ones are ready for harvest. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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9. Selecting Your Carrot Seeds<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you think of planting carrots, it may surprise you to learn that there are various species of this root vegetable. It’s the wide variety available in carrots makes them an ideal veggie to mix with any meal \u2013 and did we mention that the beta-carotene in carrots is excellent for maintaining the health and functionality of your eyes?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Try out some of these carrot species, and decide on your favorite. All of the varieties mentioned below are suitable for growing in your garden at home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Amsterdam carrots \u2013 This variety is thin and short, growing to a length of 3-inches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Danvers half-long \u2013 This carrot grows to a length of 7-inches, with a thin profile and robust flavor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Imperator \u2013 This carrot has a thin profile and grows to depths of 10-inches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The little finger \u2013 best known for its use in gourmet cooking, these carrots are small and sweet, reaching a depth of three to five inches. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Paris market carrots \u2013 Very short in length, but broad in diameter, reaching a girth of 1.5-inches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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10. Check Your Climate<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The early spring is the best time to plant your carrot seeds. It would help if you waited for the last frosts to finish and then wait for a further two to three weeks to ensure there are no lagging cold fronts that could kill your seeds as they are germinating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As with all root vegetables, carrots do well in cold climates with temperatures ranging between 60 to 70F. If you plant carrots in a warm environment, the chances are that they will only grow to half of their potential size, and they may not be as sweet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, growing carrots in too cold of a climate is also a bad idea, stunting their growth, causing them to become long and thin while turning them white in color. Fortunately, carrots are hardy and resilient, and they grow well in most conditions. Plant your carrots in early springtime, and you’ll harvest by the late fall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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11. Planting Tips<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When its time to start planting carrots, it’s best to till the soil beforehand. Tilling your soil helps to activate the minerals and bacteria in the earth, as well as provide much-needed air to the roots of the carrot while growing. Tilling your soil allows you to introduce beneficial bacteria and nutrients to the earth before you start the planting process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, we recommend you till and treat the soil, then leave it to rest for 4-weeks before planting. This strategy ensures that the nutrients and bacteria spread evenly, providing your carrots with the nutrition they need for a high yield.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plant your seeds a half-inch deep in the tilled soil, and space them 1-inch apart, and keep your rows 15-inches across from each other. If you have a small garden, and can’t plant veggies, then try using containers instead. Carrots grow readily in any pot, as long as they have sufficient nutrients, air, water, and light.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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12. Pest Control<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Unfortunately, dealing with pests and disease on your vegetables is part and parcel of growing a veggie garden. After planting your carrots, check them every week for signs of disease and pests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The most common garden critters and pests that are a threat to your carrot crop include; leaf-hoppers, flea beetles, carrot root flies, and rodents \u2013 a carrot is a tasty prize for a rat. We are against using any form of chemical pesticide on our crops. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Research on Monsanto’s “glyphosate,” shows that trace particles of the toxin remain in the vegetables. We consume the carrots, and the toxins enter our system. Consuming pesticides can lead to nerve damage and other nasty side-effects affecting the nervous system, brain, and body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Instead of using toxic chemicals to control insect populations, try installing a floating row cover to protect your plants instead. You can also spray diluted raw tobacco juice over your plants to prevent insects from eating your veggies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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13. Fertilizer and pH<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The type of soil and its pH balance is vital if you want to grow the best carrots. When planting your seeds, the best earth is rich in nutrients, loamy, and moist. Carrots don’t do well in dry climates, and a lack of water may cause them to come out long and thin, with an off-white color, instead of the bright orange hue we see on the shelves of our greengrocer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ensure that you till the soil and loosen it to a minimum depth of at least a foot below the surface. Avoid planting in areas where there are plenty of rocks in the ground, as it will affect the growth of your carrots. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before planting, test the pH of your soil. Carrots prefer a pH between 6 to 6.5, and they do not grow well in acidic environments below a pH of 6. It’s also vital that you don’t overload the soil with nitrogen, as this will stretch your carrots, making them turn out thin and long.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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14. Storage After Harvest<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Like most other root vegetables, carrots store well. If you have a root cellar, then you can expect your carrots to remain fresh and tasty for up to four months after harvest. Root cellars allow you to control the environment, setting a humidity of between 98 to 100-percent for the best storage conditions. Ensure that your root cellar is cool, and keep the temperature below 60F if possible. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before sending your carrots to storage in the root cellar, wash them and remove any additional dirt stuck on the surface of the carrot. After washing, make sure that you dry out the carrot entirely, or you run the risk of growing fungi or bacteria in your root cellar along with the vegetables.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

After harvesting your carrots, bathe them in an ice-bath. The reduction in temperature helps to preserve the vitamins, minerals, and polyphenols found in the carrots, and the practice also enhances the shelf life of the veggies as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\r\n