Imperator Carrot Seeds ,Biannual Vegetable, AAS WINNER, Deep Orange, Caribbeangardenseed

Spade or till the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches. Because of their length, Imperator varieties of carrots require deep, loose soil.

2

Rake out large dirt clods, rocks and weeds to provide for fine soil, which results in smooth, straight carrots.

3

Dig 2 to 4 inches of compost or rotted manure into the top 6 to 8 inches of soil. In addition, dig in a balanced dry fertilizer with a ratio such as 10-10-10. Apply the fertilizer at a rate of 2 to 4 cups for each 100 square feet of garden space.

4

Make shallow rows with the tip of a hoe. Allow 12 to 18 inches between each row.

 5

Sprinkle the seeds in the rows at a rate of 2 to 3 inches per inch. Cover the seeds lightly with 1/4- to 1/2inch of soil.

6

Thin the carrots when the seedlings are about 2 inches tall. Remove the weaker seedlings and leave the largest, allowing about 2 inches between each carrot.

7

Spread 1 to 3 inches of mulch, such as shredded bark or straw, around the carrots. Mulch keeps the soil evenly moist and helps slows growth of weeds.

8

Water the carrots lightly every day during warm, dry weather, providing enough moisture to keep the soil uniformly moist. Don’t allow the soil to become muddy or soggy, since too much moisture creates misshapen carrots and hairy roots. If possible, use a drip irrigation system or soaker hose to keep the tops dry.

9

Fertilize Imperator carrot varieties lightly about six weeks after the seedlings emerge, using a nitrogen fertilizer with a ratio such as 21-0-0. Apply the fertilizer at a rate of about 1/4-cup for every 10 feet of row. Sprinkle the fertilizer along the side of the rows, and then water immediately.

10

Hoe regularly to keep weeds under control, since weeds draw water and nutrients away from the carrots. Hoe carefully to prevent uprooting the carrots.

11

Harvest Imperator carrot cultivars when the tops are about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Don’t allow the carrots to become fully mature, as these varieties of carrots become woody and less flavorful.

 Things You Will Need