Thompson & Morgan Carrot Sweet Candle F1 Hybrid - 1 Seed Packet (250 Seeds)
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This guide is for gardeners aiming to grow exhibition-quality, uniform carrots, particularly for late summer and autumn harvests. The key benefit is the 'Sweet Candle' F1 Hybrid's superb sweet flavor, smooth skin, and almost coreless, bright orange roots, ideal for both the table and show bench. A potential caveat is that carrots dislike freshly manured soils, requiring soil preparation well in advance of sowing.
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| Model Part Number | 37212 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Thompson & Morgan |
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FAQs
When is the best time to sow 'Sweet Candle' F1 Hybrid seeds?
Direct sow outdoors from April to June for a late summer and autumn harvest.
How deep should I plant the carrot seeds?
Sow carrot seeds thinly at a depth of 1cm (½in) in drills.
What is the spacing for thinning carrot seedlings?
Once large enough to handle, thin seedlings within each row to 5cm (2") apart.
Can I grow these carrots in containers?
Yes, where space is limited, growing carrots in containers will also produce a worthwhile crop.
What are the ideal soil conditions for this variety?
Carrots prefer fertile, light, well-drained soil. Avoid freshly manured soils; prepare beds in advance.
How long does it take for the seeds to germinate?
Germination will typically take 10 to 20 days.
What companion plants are recommended?
Try growing carrots with spring onions, leeks, and mint, as their aromatic leaves deter carrot root fly.
When can I expect to harvest the carrots?
The harvest period for this variety is from July to October.
Troubleshooting
Poor germination or slow growth
Ensure seeds were sown at the correct depth (1cm) and the soil is well-drained and not compacted. Check soil temperature; warmer conditions are better for germination.
Forked or misshapen roots
This is often caused by stony soil, compaction, or the presence of fresh manure. Ensure soil is well-prepared and free of obstructions. Thinning seedlings adequately also prevents overcrowding which can lead to deformities.
Pest damage (e.g., carrot root fly)
Practice companion planting with aromatic herbs like mint, spring onions, or leeks. Cover rows with fine netting if pest pressure is high.
Seedlings are too crowded
Thin seedlings promptly once large enough to handle, spacing them to 5cm apart to allow roots to develop properly.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Produces aesthetically pleasing, uniform carrots.
- Excellent sweet flavor profile.
- Reliable maincrop variety for extended harvest.
- Suitable for container gardening.
- Resistant to core formation.
Cons
- Requires soil preparation in advance due to dislike of fresh manure.
- Germination can take 10-20 days.
- Thinning of seedlings is necessary for optimal growth.
- Optimal results require fertile, light, well-drained soil.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Sowing:
- Prepare seed beds in autumn, especially if using compost or aged manure, as carrots dislike freshly manured soil. Ensure the soil is fertile, light, and well-drained.
- Direct sow seeds outdoors from April to June in a sunny, weed-free position.
- Sow seeds thinly at a depth of 1cm (½in) into drills spaced 30cm (12") apart.
Germination:
- Germination typically takes 10 to 20 days.
Care:
- Thinning: Once seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them to 5cm (2") apart in the rows. This is crucial for root development.
- Watering: Maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, to prevent root splitting.
- Weeding: Keep the area free from weeds, as they compete for nutrients and water.
Compatibility:
- Companion Planting: Thrives when planted with spring onions, leeks, and mint. Aromatic plants like mint can help deter carrot root fly.
- Soil Type: Prefers light, well-drained soil. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged conditions.
- Containers: Suitable for growing in pots or containers with adequate drainage and depth.
Harvesting:
- Harvest from July to October. Gently pull carrots from the soil when they reach desired size.