Carrot Seeds,
Oxheart

4.324 ReviewsSKU: #CR126Min. seed count: 300
Price
Regular price $3.50
Regular price $0.00 Sale price $3.50
Save $-3.50
/
Shipping calculated at checkout.

Description

(Daucus carota). 90 days. Massive heart-shaped roots grow to one pound each. Can be a shy seed producer and seed is sometimes scarce, so we are excited to be able to offer this old French variety! Despite their large size, the brilliant orange roots are crisp, sweet, and mild. Their blunt shape makes them superior for heavy or shallow soils. Known as Guerande in France, it was first introduced in the U.S. in the late 19th century. Excellent storage type.

Growing Tips: Oxheart carrots thrive in well-drained, loose soil, but they are also tolerant of heavier, compacted soils that can hinder other carrot varieties. For best results, sow the seeds directly outdoors as soon as the soil can be worked in early spring. They prefer cooler temperatures, so they can also be planted in late summer for a fall harvest.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Daucus carota
Life Cycle
Biennial
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
12–18
Days to Maturity
90
Planting Depth
⅛ in.
Plant Spacing
2–3 in.
Ideal Temperature
50–75°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

When to Grow

Oxheart carrots are typically planted in early spring or late summer. The best time to sow seeds is as soon as the soil can be worked in spring, or at least 13 weeks before the first fall frost for a fall crop, since the roots need the full 90 days and bulk up more slowly as autumn days shorten. They can withstand some frost, making them a good choice for extended growing seasons​. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow Oxheart carrot seeds at a depth of 1/8 inch, spacing them about 1/2 inch apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart. 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. Once the seedlings are established, thin them to 2-3 inches apart to allow enough room for their broad roots to develop. The seeds should be kept consistently moist until they germinate, which takes about 12-18 days.

How to Grow

Maintain regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. These carrots are generally easy to grow and are quite tolerant of different soil types, especially heavier soils where other carrots may struggle.

How to Save Seeds

Since Oxheart carrots are biennials, they produce seeds in their second year. To save seeds, allow a few plants to overwinter in the ground, and they will flower and set seeds the following spring. Once the seeds have dried on the plant, harvest and store them in a cool, dry place for future plantings.

FAQ

Can Oxheart carrots be grown in containers?

Yes, they can be grown in containers, provided the container is deep enough to accommodate their roots, ideally at least 12 inches deep.

How do I know when Oxheart carrots are ready to harvest?

Harvest at about 90 days, when the shoulders have broadened and the blunt, heart-shaped roots have filled out - mature roots can reach a pound each. Lift a test root to check size before pulling the row.

What are common pests for Oxheart carrots and how can I manage them?

Oxheart carrots can be affected by common carrot pests like carrot flies. Using row covers and practicing crop rotation can help manage these issues.

Browse our full range of carrot seeds.

FREE SHIPPING IN THE U.S.A.
Alternate domestic shipping options available at checkout.
You may also like