Neptune Carrot

Planting:

Sow as soon as ground can be worked. Even moisture and soil temperature (18-24 degrees C) are essential for good germination. Sow seed 1⁄4-1⁄2 inches deep. Seed takes 14-21 days to germinate. Planting a few radish seeds helps to loosen the soil and mark the rows for these slow emerging seeds. Thin plants to at least 1 inch apart in rows spaced 18-24 inches apart.

Pelleted Seed: Pelleted seed is easy to handle and saves space while reducing the amount of thinning required. Pelleted seed requires more moisture than regular seed so keep moist until coating has cracked.

Growing:

Carrots are best grown in full sun but will tolerate light shading. Choose deeply-worked, stone free soil with pH of 6.5. Chantenay types are suitable for shallow or heavy soils. Raised beds or rows are recommended. Carrots are light to moderate feeders. Avoid using fresh animal and green manures at the time of planting. Moisture is required for good root formation.

Pests & Diseases:

Root maggots and Rust Flies can be deterred by using row covers. Leaf spot and blight diseases (Cercospera and Altenaria) can be controlled using a sulfur or copper fungicide. Aster Yellows is a disease spread by leaf hoppers. Control these insects by spraying in the evening with insecticidal soap or a pyrethrum product.

Companions:

Bean, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, chive, leaf lettuce, leek, onion, pea, pepper, radish, tomato.

Sowing Rate:

Approx. 23,000/25g will seed a 100-150 foot row, 1kg of seed/ acre.