carrots

Question 1

Named cultivar

Answer 1

Daucus carota ‘Autumn King 2’

Question 2

When to sow

Answer 2

April to June

Question 3

How to sow

Answer 3

Shallow drills 20mm deep, in rows 15cm apart.
Sow thinly to save thinning which can attract carrot fly

Question 4

How to maintain crop

Answer 4

Hoe between rows. Thin seedlings when the first rough leaves appear.Thin again until plants are 10cm apart. Thin on dull days to avoid carrot root fly. Firm and water rows after thinning. Remove debris.

Question 5

When to harvest

Answer 5

Pull when they are large enough for eating

Question 6

How to store

Answer 6

Lift roots in October with a fork and store in boxes of sand or soil in a frost proof shed

Question 7

How long to store for

Answer 7

2 to 5 months

Question 8

one pest and it’s controls

Answer 8

Carrot root fly. Larvae feed on roots, causing reddening of the foliage and some stunting of growth. The carrot root is also damaged with tunnels. Delay sowing till late may or June. Water before thinning and sow thinly to reduce thinning. Make a barrier of fine mesh over the carrots to stop the adult flies reaching them.

Question 9

One disease and its controls

Answer 9

Violet root rot. Tips of the foliage turn yellow and wilting may occur. Leaves die, Purple fungal growth visible when roots are lifted. Ensure site is well drained and ensure adequate fertiliser levels.