Carrot Seeds,
Danvers 126 Half Long

This variety is best grown as a cool-season crop, thriving in the cooler temperatures of early spring or late summer. The seeds can be sown as soon as the soil is workable in the spring, typically when soil temperatures are between 50 F and 75 F. In regions with mild winters, you can also plant these carrots in the late summer for a fall or winter harvest, as they can withstand light frosts. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

Sow the seeds directly into well-prepared garden soil. It's important to sow the seeds about 1/8 inch deep in loose, well-drained soil. If your garden soil is heavy or clay-rich, consider using raised beds or working the soil deeply to ensure good root development. Once the seedlings have grown a few inches tall, thin them to about 2-3 inches apart. This spacing is crucial as it prevents overcrowding, allowing the roots to develop fully without competition.

Danvers 126 Half-Long carrots thrive in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade, particularly in hotter climates where some shade might help prevent the soil from drying out too quickly. Regular watering is essential, as carrots need consistent moisture to develop sweet and tender roots. Mulching around the plants can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature, which is particularly beneficial during the warmer months.

Carrots are biennials, meaning they flower in their second season of growth. They are insect-pollinated and require isolation from other carrot varieties to ensure pure seed. To collect seeds, leave a few carrots in the ground over winter, as each plant produces a significant amount of seed. In the following season, these plants will produce an umbel of flowers. Allow the umbels to remain on the plant until they are completely dry, at which point the seeds can be easily shaken off and stored in refrigeration for up to three years.