How to Sow British Baby Carrot Seeds
British carrot seeds grow into blunt-tipped, almost coreless roots that will grow to a length of 2-3″, Adult carrots have a great texture, and a rich orange colour. Making this variety a must have, to grow at home or on an allotment. This variety of carrots is fast maturing, which makes it ideal for early sowing for same year harvest. British carrots are cool weather plants that are best planted in spring.
Guidance on How to Sow British Baby Carrot Seeds
- Timing: Wait until after the last frost has passed before planting the carrot seeds. This ensures that the soil is adequately warmed and the risk of frost damage is minimized.
- Soil Preparation: Prepare the topsoil by thinning it to a depth of 6 to 10 inches. This will provide sufficient loose soil for the carrots to establish healthy root growth. British Orange Baby Carrot seeds should be sown at a spacing of 12 to 16 inches apart, with a depth of around 1/2 inch. The seeds require full sun to thrive.
- Germination and Growth: The germination period for British Baby Carrots is typically between 14 to 21 days. After germination, the plants will mature fully within 70 to 80 days. During this time, it’s important to cover the carrots as they grow to prevent them from developing “green shoulder.” Gently push soil up around the growing carrots to cover any exposed roots and prevent the green coloration.
Soil Amendments: Avoid using manure when cultivating British Orange Carrots. Manure can lead to rough, hairy, split, and forked carrots. Instead, focus on maintaining well-draining soil with adequate organic matter.
Caring for British Baby Carrot Vegetables
- Thinning and Carrot Fly Prevention: As the seedlings emerge, thin them out to provide enough space for each carrot to grow. Remove the thinned seedlings promptly to deter carrot flies from being attracted to the area. Carrot flies are common pests that can damage the crop.
- Harvesting: The best time to harvest British Orange Baby Carrots is in the evening when there are fewer carrot flies present. Before harvesting, water the soil to facilitate easier root removal. This helps avoid damage to neighboring carrots during the harvesting process.
