In recent years, as living standards have improved, the area dedicated to off-season spring carrot cultivation has been steadily increasing. This article outlines effective techniques for growing spring carrots.
I. Variety Selection and Seeding Rate
When choosing varieties for spring sowing, it is essential to select those that are resistant to bolting, high-yielding, and of good quality. Varieties such as New Kuroda 5-inch, Red Core 4, and Chunhong No. 1 are ideal. The recommended seeding rate is 0.75 kg per mu when drilling, and 1–1.5 kg per mu when sowing directly.
II. Cultivation Techniques
1. Determining the Right Sowing Date
Carrots sown in early spring are prone to bolting if planted too early, while planting too late can lead to root deformation due to high temperatures above 25°C. The optimal temperature for root development is between 18–25°C. Based on experience, seeds can be sown when the average daily temperature reaches 10°C and the night temperature is around 7°C, provided the variety is resistant to bolting. In northern China, sowing typically begins in early April, while southern regions may start in late March. Central and southern areas can plant as early as March, and in colder regions like the north and northeast, sowing takes place from late April to mid-May.
2. Soil Preparation and Seed Soaking
Carrots require well-drained, fertile soil with a deep layer, such as sandy loam or loam. Before sowing, the soil should be deeply plowed to a depth of at least 25 cm. Apply 5,000 kg of farmyard manure per 667 m², along with 15 kg of available nitrogen fertilizer and phosphorus-potassium fertilizers. Carrot seeds have poor water absorption and germination at low temperatures, so soaking them in warm water (30–35°C) for 3–4 hours before sowing is recommended. After soaking, place the seeds in a damp cloth or bag and keep them at 25–30°C for 4 days, stirring regularly. Once 80–90% of the seeds have germinated, mix them with wet sand and sow them evenly, covering lightly with soil and using plastic film or straw for protection.
3. Field Management
After sowing, maintain consistent soil moisture by watering immediately after pressing the soil. Remove the cover in the morning when there is no wind once the seedlings emerge. Thin the seedlings twice: the first time when there are 1–2 true leaves, removing weak or overcrowded plants; the second time when there are 3–4 true leaves, spacing them 9 cm apart and 15–18 cm between rows. Weeding is crucial for high yields, and herbicides like 50% paraquat (450 kg/ha) mixed with 75 kg of water can be used effectively. Also, ensure proper soil cultivation to prevent green shoulders on the roots. Fertilize 1–2 times during the growing season. The first application occurs 5–7 days after germination, using 3 kg of ammonium sulfate and 3 kg of PK fertilizer per 667 m². The second application happens when the plant has 8–9 true leaves, during the root enlargement stage, applying 7.5 kg of ammonium sulfate and 3.5 kg of phosphorus-potassium fertilizer per 667 m², combined with irrigation.
4. Timely Harvesting
For carrots sown in late March, harvesting usually occurs between late June and early July. However, harvests should also be adjusted based on market demand. When the plants are mature, the leaves stop growing, and the lower ones turn yellow. If stored in a cold room at 0–3°C, harvested carrots can be supplied throughout the summer.
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