Looking for something different to plant in your garden this season? Monochrome Mix Carrots offer a striking 50/50 blend of two unique heirloom varieties: Black Nebula and Snow White. This combination not only brings visual contrast to your garden but also delivers a range of flavors and uses in the kitchen.
Black Nebula: One of the darkest carrots available, Black Nebula features deep midnight purple roots that extend all the way to the core. These 8-10" long, tapered carrots have a sweet taste and maintain their rich color even after cooking. Black Nebula is perfect for juicing, creating a stunning dark purple drink that turns bright pink with a squeeze of lemon. The juice can also be used as a natural dye for Easter eggs and fabrics. While the roots may have a rustic appearance, their flavor and high anthocyanin content make them well worth growing. If left in the garden, Black Nebula produces exquisite white umbel flowers tinged with lavender, attracting pollinators.
Snow White: In contrast, Snow White Carrots offer a creamy-white root with a mild-sweet taste and a crisp crunch. These carrots are perfect for adding to salads and gourmet dishes, especially when paired with darker varieties like Black Nebula. The plants produce excellent quality carrots that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
Whether you're looking to add visual appeal to your garden or explore new flavors in your cooking, Monochrome Mix Carrots are an excellent choice. This unique blend of Black Nebula and Snow White carrots will make you the coolest gardener on the block!
* 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.
Sustainable Packaging & Shipping:
• 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.)
• All orders are carefully packed and shipped with tracking via USPS First Class (or Priority, if selected) in padded ECOENCLOSE recycled and reusable mailers, or recycled boxes to protect your items in transit.
Most orders ship out the same or next business day! Please note that this time may be extended during peak season.
• FREE SHIPPING on all orders of $35 or more. Flat Rate shipping no matter how many packets you order.
* DIRECTIONS *
Common Names: Monochrome Mix Carrots
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 8-10 inches for Black Nebula; 6-8 inches for Snow White
Spread: 2-3 inches
Color: Black Nebula - Deep purple; Snow White - Creamy white
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 Black Nebula and Snow White Carrots when they reach 6-10 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, both Black Nebula and Snow White Carrots produce white umbels that are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Origin: Black Nebula is a modern heirloom with high anthocyanin content. Snow White is a creamy-white carrot variety with a long history of cultivation.
Nomenclature: The name "carrot" comes from the Latin word "carota."
History: Black Nebula and Snow White Carrots are both cherished for their unique colors, flavors, and nutritional benefits.
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 climate.
