Carrot 'Oxhella'

Organic ‘Oxhella’ Carrot Seeds

Sowing schedule: Sow direct outside from April until early June for harvesting in the autumn. Waiting until May to sow carrot seed may help avoid the worst of the carrot fly - and seeds usually germinate better than those sown earlier in April.

Sowing depth: 1.5 - 2.5cm

Sowing distance: Sow or thin to 2-3 cm between plants and 30-35 cm between rows. Sow seeds into a shallow drill as accurately spaced as possible to minimise the need for later thinning which can attract carrot fly pests.

Growing conditions: Carrots prefer full sun and light, fertile, deep soil with a fine tilth. Freshly manured plots are not appropriate for carrots due to the high nitrogen content which can cause forking of the root and excessive leaf growth at the expense of the root. Well-rotted compost or all-purpose balanced fertilisers such as Topmix Complete Organic Plant Food 4-3-7 or Biodigester Organic Plant Food 4-3-7 are a better option for carrots.

Ongoing care: One of the biggest threats to a carrot crop is the larva of the carrot fly. Carrot flies are drawn to the smell of carrots which is strongest when the leaves are disturbed. Avoid damaging the leaves when weeding or thinning, cover with Bionet or spray with Biovit garlic concentrate to keep the carrot fly at bay.

Harvest: Plants reach maturity in 120-140 days and should be lifted before winter and stored in cool dark place.

Number of seeds: Each packet contains approximately 1300 organic seeds, enough for 1000 plants.