Tendersweet Carrot Seeds

Sowing: Prepare the soil approximately 3 weeks before the last expected spring frost or when the soil temperature reaches 7 degrees Celsius. These long, slender carrots thrive in deeply worked, loose soil to achieve their full length. Create a raised mound in the row, about 20 centimeters wide; sow Tendersweet carrot seeds on it and cover them with 6 millimeters of loose soil. Ensure the soil remains moist, avoiding compaction above the seeds, which could hinder germination. In cooler climates, sow additional Tendersweet carrot seeds every 3-6 weeks for a continuous harvest. Warmer regions may limit planting to spring and fall crops, as carrots are sensitive to excessive heat. For companion planting benefits, consider planting carrots alongside aromatic herbs or onions to deter carrot flies and their larvae.

Growing: Once the seedlings reach a height of 5 centimeters, gently thin them to 5-10 centimeters apart, depending on the desired carrot size. The greater the spacing, the larger the carrots will grow. Maintain adequate soil moisture and cover emerging carrot tops with mulch to preserve tenderness. Keep weed growth in check to prevent the young carrots from being hindered in their growth.

Harvesting: Start harvesting baby carrots as soon as they reach a suitable size for consumption, leaving others to continue growing to full maturity. If the carrots resist being pulled from the ground, ensure the soil is adequately moist. For winter storage, remove the tops by twisting them off without washing the carrots. Store them layered in damp sand or sawdust. In regions with warmer climates, you can leave the carrots in the garden over the winter, covering them with a generous layer of mulch for protection.

Seed Saving: To maintain the genetic purity of Tendersweet carrot seeds, it's essential to take certain precautions due to the potential for cross-pollination. If possible, isolate the carrot plants designated for seed saving at least two kilometers away from other carrot varieties or employ protective cages. In regions where the soil freezes during winter, dig up the carrots before the first heavy frost. Remove the tops by twisting them off and store the carrots at approximately 2 degrees Celsius in damp sand or sawdust throughout the winter, ensuring the roots do not come into contact with each other. When spring arrives, replant Tendersweet carrot seeds. It's recommended to harvest 30-40 carrots to maintain genetic diversity. In warmer climates, you can leave the carrots in the ground during winter, covering them generously with mulch for protection. In spring, allow the top of the plant to flower; once the flowers turn brown and dry, cut them off and let them fully dry. Clean the seeds to remove any debris and store Tendersweet carrot seeds in a cool, dry place for up to three years.

Planting Methods: Direct sow Tendersweet carrot seeds in deeply worked, loose soil, preferably in raised mounds, approximately 3 weeks before the last expected spring frost, or when the soil temperature reaches 7 degrees Celsius. Ensure proper spacing of 5-10 centimeters between seeds to allow for optimal growth.

Blooming Season: Carrots typically do not produce noticeable flowers or blooms.

Planting Season: Tendersweet carrots are ideally planted in the early spring, approximately 3 weeks before the last expected frost date.

Latin Name/USDA Zones: The Latin name for Tendersweet carrots is Daucus carota. They are suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 3-10.

Sunlight Required/Height: Tendersweet carrots require full sunlight to partial shade and can reach a height of 15-25 centimeters when mature.

Shelf Life After Test Date: Tendersweet carrot seeds typically maintain their viability for up to 3 years after the test date if stored properly in a cool, dry place.

Seed Type: Tendersweet carrot seeds are open-pollinated, non-hybrid seeds.

Soil Type: Tendersweet carrots prefer well-draining loam soil, but they can also tolerate clay or sandy soil types with proper amendments and drainage.