Carrot

Daucus carota

Very nutritious vegetable originating from central Asia. Richest vegetable in vitamin A. Used by ancient Greek physicians as stomach tonic, known in Roman times and widely used as a vegetable by 13th century. Sunny spot. Good in all soils, likes well drained friable soil, fertilized for previous crop. Thin to 20-50mm and use thinnings as baby carrots. Sow seed direct, keeping seeds moist, can cover with hessian or similar till germination which is usually about 5-6 days, then uncover to let light in. Rotate crops to prevent disease build-up. Cleaned carrots store well in cool conditions. Sow spring, summer and autumn, best not sown in heavy frost.