Cape Market Carrot - 0.1 gram

Description:

The Cape Market carrot (Daucus carota) is a traditional, heirloom variety known for its deep orange colour, smooth texture, and conical shape. It produces medium to large-sized roots with a sweet and crisp flavour. This variety is popular for fresh eating, juicing, and cooking due to its high sugar content and tender flesh. Cape Market carrots are well-adapted to a range of growing conditions and are ideal for home gardens and market production.

Growing Instructions:

Sunlight: Full sun (at least 6-8 hours daily).

Soil: Loose, well-draining sandy or loamy soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8. Heavy, compacted, or rocky soils can cause deformed roots.

Planting:

Sowing Time: Early spring through late summer. In warmer climates, plant in fall for a winter harvest.

Spacing: Sow seeds 1 cm deep, 4 cm apart in rows spaced 25 cm apart.

Thinning: Once seedlings are 4 cm tall, thin them to 8 cm apart to allow proper root development.

Watering & Care:

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions.

Mulching: Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilization: Use compost or a low-nitrogen fertilizer before planting. Too much nitrogen can lead to excessive leafy growth at the expense of root formation.

Harvesting:

Time to Maturity: 70-90 days.

How to Harvest: Loosen the soil around the carrots before pulling them up to prevent breaking. For the best flavour and texture, harvest when they are medium-sized but still firm and crisp.

Common Issues & Solutions:

Pests: Carrot flies can be deterred with row covers. Rotate crops to prevent infestations.

Disease: Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and fungal diseases.

Cape Market carrots are a great choice for gardeners looking for a reliable, sweet, and flavourful variety. They store well and can be enjoyed fresh, cooked, or juiced!