There are many varieties of carrots, which are generally grown from seeds. Growers should choose suitable high-yield varieties based on the local climate. To achieve high yields in carrot cultivation, it is essential to master the following five points:
1. Site selection and land preparation
Choose sandy loam soil that is deep, well-drained, has few weeds, and is loose. Deeply plow the land and apply 1000-1500 kg of well-rotted organic fertilizer , 100-200 kg of wood ash, and 8-10 kg of superphosphate per acre. Turn the fertilizer into the soil, rake it level, and then create raised beds.
2. Seed treatment
Before sowing, the bristles on the seeds should be rubbed off to separate the two halves of the fruit into individual seeds, ensuring even sowing. Germination should also be promoted by soaking the seeds (with the bristles removed) in 40℃ warm water for 2 hours, then removing them and placing them in a room at 20-25℃ to germinate. Sowing can begin when the radicle of most seeds is visible.
3. Sowing method
Carrots are generally planted twice a year, once in early spring (February-March) and once in summer (July-August). Carrot seeds are sown by broadcasting or by row sowing at a spacing of 15-20 cm. After sowing, cover with 1.5-2 cm of fine soil, and then cover with straw to cool and retain moisture.
4. Seedling Management
Carrots typically germinate 7-10 days after sowing. Once germinated, the covering straw should be removed promptly. Thinning should be done 2-3 times. The first thinning should be done when the seedlings have 1-2 true leaves, and the second thinning should be done when they have 3-4 leaves. If the final thinning is done after the third thinning, the spacing between seedlings should be about 6 cm.
5. Water and fertilizer management
Carrots have a high nutrient requirement during the root enlargement stage. Applying 4 kg of superphosphate and 5 kg of potassium sulfate per acre can significantly improve yield. Keep the soil moist, ideally with a water content of 60-80%. During periods of vigorous leaf growth, water should be controlled to prevent excessive vegetative growth. Watering is crucial during the root enlargement stage to promote rapid root expansion.
