Gently loosen the soil around the base of the carrot plants and then carefully pull the carrots out by their greens, twisting lightly if needed.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of the carrot harvesting process:
When to Harvest Carrots
The best time to harvest carrots depends on the variety you've planted and the size you prefer. Check your seed packet for the "days to maturity" information as a general guide. Generally, carrots are ready for harvest when they reach the size indicated on the seed packet, typically around 2-3 months after planting.
Here are some visual cues:
- Check the shoulders: Brush away some soil around the top of the carrots. If they've reached the desired diameter, they're likely ready.
- Color: Mature carrots will have a vibrant, even color.
- Tops: Yellowing or browning carrot tops can indicate over-maturity, but it can also be due to other issues. Use this in conjunction with other methods.
The Harvesting Process: Step-by-Step
- Loosen the Soil: Use a garden fork or hand trowel to gently loosen the soil around the carrots. This is particularly important in heavy or compacted soil to avoid breaking the carrots. Be careful not to damage the carrots themselves. A hori-hori can also work well.
- Grip and Pull: Grasp the carrot greens as close to the base of the plant as possible.
- Twist and Pull: Gently twist the carrots as you pull upwards. This can help to dislodge them from the soil. Avoid yanking too hard, as this can cause the tops to break off, leaving the carrot still in the ground.
- Persistent Carrots: If the carrot refuses to budge, loosen the soil further around it. You may even need to dig down along the sides of the carrot with your hand trowel to free it.
What to Do After Harvesting
- Remove the Greens: Twist or cut off the carrot greens immediately after harvesting. This prevents the greens from drawing moisture from the carrots, helping them stay fresh longer.
- Clean the Carrots: Gently brush off any excess soil. Avoid washing them unless you plan to use them immediately.
- Store Properly: Store unwashed carrots in a cool, dark, and humid place, such as the refrigerator crisper drawer. Placing them in a bag with some moisture helps prevent them from drying out. Carrots can also be stored in a bucket of damp sand in a root cellar.
Troubleshooting
- Carrots Breaking: This is usually caused by compacted or rocky soil. Ensure you loosen the soil well before planting and remove any rocks.
- Small Carrots: This can be due to overcrowding, poor soil fertility, or insufficient sunlight. Thin out seedlings early, amend the soil with compost, and ensure your carrots get at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Forked Carrots: Rocky soil or root-knot nematodes can cause forked carrots. Amend the soil and consider using nematode-resistant varieties.
