Half Long Danver Carrot Seeds

Sowing: Prepare the soil 3 weeks before the last expected spring frost or when the soil temperature reaches 7 degrees Celsius. These short, stocky carrots can grow even in heavy soil. Build up a raised mound in the row, about 20 centimeters wide; sow Danvers carrot seeds on it, and cover them with 1 centimeter very loose soil. Keep the soil moist, but do not allow the area above these medium-sized carrot seeds to become hard - this may prevent the seeds from germinating. Sow more Danvers carrot seeds every 3-6 weeks for a continuous crop. For companion planting benefits, plant carrots with aromatic herbs or onions; this will repel the carrot fly and its maggots.

Growing: When the seedlings reach 5 centimeters high, gently thin them to 5-10 centimeters apart, depending on desired carrot size. The farther apart they are, the bigger they will grow. Do not allow the soil to dry out. When the tops of the carrots begin to emerge from the soil, cover them with mulch to keep them tender. Keep weeds under control to prevent the young carrots from being stunted. Danvers carrots are quite heat tolerant and resist splitting.

Begin gathering baby carrots when they grow big enough to eat, to allow the remaining carrots to reach a larger size. If they become difficult to pull, make sure the ground is moist. To store carrots for the winter, twist off the tops but do not wash them. Layer them in damp sand or sawdust. In warmer climates, leave the carrots in the garden over winter topped with a thick layer of mulch.

Because carrot varieties will cross-pollinate with each other as well as with wild carrots, isolate the plant for seed at least three kilometers from other varieties or provide a protective cage. In areas where the ground freezes over winter, it will be necessary to dig up the carrots before the first heavy frost; twist off the tops and store the carrots at 2 degrees Celsius in damp sand or sawdust over winter, making sure the roots do not touch. Plant medium-sized carrot seeds again in the spring. From 30-40 carrots should be harvested to preserve genetic diversity. In warmer climates, leave them in the ground and cover them thickly with mulch over winter. In the spring, allow the top of the plant to flower; when they grow brown and dry, cut them off and allow them to fully dry. Clean to remove as much chaff as possible, then store Danvers carrot seeds in a cool, dry place for up to three years.

Planting Methods: Indoor, Outdoor
Blooming Season: Carrots, including Danvers Half Long, are biennial plants primarily grown for their roots, and they do not produce showy blooms in the first year. Carrot plants are generally grown for their edible taproots, which are harvested before the plant reaches the flowering stage. If left in the ground during their second year, they may produce small, inconspicuous flowers. However, for optimal flavor and texture, it's recommended to harvest the carrots before they reach this blooming stage.
Planting Season: Spring
Latin Name/USDA Zones: Daucus carota subsp. sativus/ 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Sunlight Required/ Height: Full Sun/ 15-30 cm
Shelf Life After Test Date: The shelf life of Danvers Half Long Carrot Seeds after the test date is approximately 2-3 years when stored in cool, dry conditions. While germination rates may gradually decline over time, proper storage can maintain seed viability. Regularly assess seed viability by conducting a germination test. Ensure seeds are kept in airtight containers away from moisture and extreme temperatures to maximize their longevity and support successful cultivation in subsequent growing seasons.
Seed Type: Heirloom, Open-Pollinated
Soil Type: Sandy loam or Loamy soil