Carrots are very sensitive to extreme high temperatures. On the other hand low temperatures below 10 degrees celsius result into long thin carrots.
Additionally, carrots should be stored crates in a ventilated place to avoid rot and mould development. Also for maximum yields carrots require well drained neutral- alkaline loose sandy soils. Additionally, carrot farms should be set in areas with full sunlight as well as little shade and optimum temperature between 16-24 degree celsius. There are various requirements needed to start p a carrot farm among these include land, seeds, fertilizers.
Carrot growing
Start by thoroughly preparing land and when planting only plant certified seeds 6mm deep and 5cm apart and thereafter cover with a thin soil layer, alternatively, sow seeds by broadcasting however, this makes weed control very hard. Additionally, mulch carrot fields to preserve soil moisture, apply decayed compost prior to planting
Management and harvesting
Always irrigate crops both in morning and evening as well as mulching to preserve soil moisture. Also apply decayed compost and cover with palm fronds to keep soil moist, avoid direct sunlight and seed split during irrigation. Furthermore, gently water seedlings and remove compacted soil particles to encourage seed germination. Lastly, harvesting should be done 2-3 months after planting when roots have 3cm in diameter.
Pest and disease
Aphids these are found below leaves, they cause stunted growth and leaf yellowing and can be effectively controlled by using tolerant seeds and insecticides. Additionally, Carrot weevil this is controlled by removing crop debris and through crop rotation. Furthermore, Leaf blight this causes leaf yellowing and controlled by fungicides. Also black root rot this results from too much use of compost. Lastly, downy mildew and this is controlled by by proper spacing and crop rotation.
