Carrot Seeds,
Dara Flowering

For optimal results, sow Dara carrot seeds directly into the garden either in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked, or in late fall. Seed germinates in 12-18 days at 50-75 F, and no pre-chilling is needed. In regions with mild winters, fall sowing is particularly effective. Dara carrots suitable for USDA hardiness zones 4-9. In colder climates, starting seeds indoors in late winter and transplanting them after the last frost can give the plants a head start. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

To sow Dara Flowering carrot seeds, prepare a finely raked, weed-free bed. Directly sow the seeds, lightly pressing them into the soil but not covering them heavily, as they need light to germinate. If starting indoors, sow the seeds in trays with a light covering of vermiculite and place the trays under grow lights until the seedlings are ready for transplanting. Once the seedlings are about two inches tall, thin them out to about 2-3 inches apart to ensure they have enough space to grow. Carrot seeds can be challenging to handle due to their small size, so using seed tape or mixing seeds with sand can help with even distribution.

Dara Flowering carrot can grow quite tall, so it might need staking to prevent it from falling over in windy conditions. Ensure the plants receive consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Although carrots can grow in nutrient-poor soils, using a balanced fertilizer can promote healthier growth. Beware of pests like carrot root fly, which can affect the plant. Using row covers or companion planting can help deter these pests.

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.