Chantenay Red Core Carrot is a reliable heirloom variety known for its deep orange color and sweet, rich flavor. These short, thick carrots typically grow to about 5-6 inches in length with broad shoulders and a distinct red core that adds a pop of color to your dishes. Chantenay Red Core Carrots are perfect for fresh eating, roasting, or adding to soups and stews, where their flavor intensifies during cooking.
This variety is especially well-suited for heavy or clay soils where longer carrot varieties may struggle. Chantenay Red Core is a vigorous grower that produces uniform roots, making it a favorite among gardeners for both home and market use. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out, this carrot is a reliable choice for a rewarding harvest.
* SCROLL DOWN FOR DETAILED GROWING INFO *
All Nimble NiteCap Seeds are:
• Heirloom
• Organic
• Non-GMO
• Open Pollinated
• Untreated
• US Grown
• Growing instructions included
• Regular testing is conducted to uphold the highest germination standards, all the while employing appropriate seed storage techniques.
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• NimbleNitecap seeds are packed in eco-friendly, compostable seed packets. Seed packets are printed in house with vegetable-based inks on biodegradable, recycled materials. (Small plastic bags are infrequently used to prevent the loss of very small seeds.)
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* DIRECTIONS *
Common Names: Chantenay Red Core Carrot
Latin Name: Daucus carota
Type: Root Vegetable
Life Cycle: Biennial, grown as an annual
USDA Zones: 3 - 10
Stratification: Not required
Germination Ease: Moderate
Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Moisture: Prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil
Soil: Tolerant of heavier soils; loose, sandy loam preferred for optimal growth
Height: Root length 5-6 inches
Spread: 2-3 inches
Color: Deep orange with a red core
Bloom Season: Flowers the second year if left unharvested
Companion Plants: Suitable companions include onions, leeks, and tomatoes.
Potential Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets
Climate Adaptability: Adaptable to a range of climates within its USDA zones; prefers cooler weather
~ Sowing ~
When to Sow Outside: 2 to 4 weeks before average last frost date, and again in late summer for a fall crop.
When to Start Inside: Not recommended; direct sowing is preferable.
Planting Depth: Sow seeds ¼ inch deep.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist to ensure good root formation. Do not allow the soil to dry out.
Light and Temperature: Carrots prefer cooler temperatures between 55-75°F (13-24°C).
Germination: Seeds typically germinate in 14-21 days.
~ Transplanting Seedlings Outdoors ~
Timing: Direct sowing is recommended, as carrots do not transplant well.
Location: Choose a sunny location with well-drained, loose soil to encourage straight root development.
Spacing: Thin seedlings to 2-3 inches apart to allow for proper root growth.
~ Growing ~
Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods. Consistent moisture is key to preventing cracking.
Fertilizing: Carrots benefit from a balanced fertilizer or compost worked into the soil before planting. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote foliage growth over root development.
Pest and Disease Management: Monitor for pests such as carrot flies and aphids. Use row covers or organic pest control methods if necessary. Rotate crops yearly to prevent soil-borne diseases.
Maintenance: Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding and ensure straight, healthy roots.
~ Harvesting ~
When to Harvest: Harvest Chantenay Red Core Carrots when they reach 5-6 inches in length, typically 65-75 days after sowing.
How to Harvest: Gently loosen the soil around the roots with a garden fork and pull them out by the tops. Handle with care to avoid damaging the roots.
Drying and Storing: Carrots can be stored in a cool, dark place with high humidity for several months. Remove the tops before storing to prevent moisture loss.
~ Seed Saving ~
Allow the plants to flower and set seed in their second year. Once the seed heads have dried, collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place for future planting.
~ Additional Information ~
Forage for Pollinators: If allowed to flower, Chantenay Red Core Carrot produces white umbels that are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Origin: Carrots have been cultivated for over 1,000 years and originated from Persia.
Nomenclature: The name "carrot" comes from the Latin word "carota."
History: Chantenay Red Core Carrot is an heirloom variety with a long history of cultivation, particularly valued for its adaptability to different soil types.
Potential Toxicity: Non-toxic and safe for consumption by humans and pets.
Climate Adaptability: Prefers cooler weather; can be grown in spring or fall in most climates.
