Carrots (Daucus carota) are annual or biennial crops belonging to the Apiaceae family. They complete their life cycle within one to two years and are a significant source of vitamin A, making them one of the leading vegetable crops in India. Major carrot-producing states in India include Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh.

Climate / Temperature:

• Ideal Temperature Range: 7-23°C
• Rainfall: 75-100 cm
• Sowing Temperature: 18-23°C
• Harvesting Temperature: 20-25°C

Water Demand:

Effective water management is crucial for carrot growth. Irrigation should be based on soil type and climatic conditions. Typically, carrots require irrigation three to four times during their growth cycle.

Soil: Carrots thrive in deep, soft, and smooth soils. Heavy or overly loose soils are not suitable for carrot cultivation. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7, with a pH of 6.5 being particularly beneficial for high yields.

Major Varieties:

PC 34: Features red roots and deep green leaves, with roots reaching 25 cm in length and 3.15 cm in diameter. It has a total soluble solids (TSS) content of 8.8% and can be harvested 90 days after sowing, yielding approximately 204 quintals per acre.

Punjab Black Beauty: Known for its purple-black roots and dark green leaves, this variety contains anthocyanins and phenols that may aid in cancer prevention. With a TSS content of 7.5%, it can be harvested in 93 days, yielding around 196 quintals per acre. Often used fresh in salads, juices, and pickles.

Punjab Carrot Red: This variety yields approximately 230 quintals per acre.

Varieties from Other Regions

• USA: Red Cord Chantenay, Danvers Half Long, Imperator
• New Zealand: Akaroa Long Red, Spring Market Improved, Wanganui Giant
• Japan: Suko
• Belgium: Belgian White
• Netherlands: Early Horn
• Australia: Red Elephant, Western Red, Yellow
• France: Chantenay, Nantes, Oxheart
• Pusa Kesar: Developed by IARI, this red carrot variety can be harvested in 90-110 days, yielding about 120 quintals per acre.
• Pusa Meghali: Another orange carrot variety developed by IARI, yielding 100-120 quintals per acre.
• New Kuroda: A hybrid variety suitable for both flat and hilly terrains.

Sowing of Crops:

Field Preparation: The field should be well-tilled and free from weeds and stones. Incorporate 10 tons of well-decomposed organic matter into the soil. Avoid fresh dung and poorly decomposed manure, as these can soften the roots.

Suitable Time of Sowing:

• Local Varieties: August to September
• European Varieties: October to November

Field Preparation:

• Spacing: Maintain a distance of 45 cm between rows and 7.5 cm between plants.
• Seed Depth: The ideal seed depth is 1.5 cm.
• Sowing Technique: Seeds are sown using the dibbling method and scattered by hand.

Seed Treatment: Soak the seeds in water for 12-24 hours before sowing to enhance germination.

Fertilization: Apply the following fertilizers per acre at the time of sowing:

• Urea: 55 kg
• SSP: 75 kg
• Muriate of Potash: 50 kg
• Zinc: As needed

Weed Management: Weeds should be manually removed to maintain soil aeration and prevent competition for nutrients.

Water Management: Irrigation should commence immediately after sowing to aid germination. Subsequent irrigation depends on soil type and climate, typically every 6-7 days in summer and every 10-12 days in winter. Avoid over-irrigation to prevent root rot and cease irrigation 2-3 weeks before harvesting to enhance the sweetness and flavor of the carrots.

Pest and Disease Management:

• Nematodes: Use 0.5 tons of neem cake at sowing to control nematode infestations.
• Leaf Spots: If detected, spray 2 grams of Mancozeb per liter of water to combat the disease.

Harvesting: Carrots are harvested 90-100 days after sowing, depending on the variety. The harvesting process involves pulling the plants from the soil, ensuring that the roots are intact. After harvesting, remove the green tops and wash the carrots thoroughly.