Carrot Daucus carota 'Flyaway'

Water

The 'Flyaway' carrot, as a root vegetable, requires consistent moisture for optimal growth. It should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on the rainfall and soil type. The aim is to provide about 1 inch of water per week, either through rainfall or irrigation. Deep watering encourages the roots to grow downward, which is essential for healthy carrot development. In dry conditions, you may need to water more frequently to maintain the moisture level. Check the soil moisture by feeling the soil about an inch below the surface; if it's dry, it's time to water. Make sure to avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of foliage diseases.

Light

Carrots, including the 'Flyaway' variety, thrive best in full sunlight. They need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The ideal growing spot for 'Flyaway' carrots is an area that receives uninterrupted light throughout the day. Partial shade is acceptable but can result in slower growth and reduced yields. Avoid densely shaded areas for planting carrots, as insufficient light can lead to thin, spindly roots.

Temperature

'Flyaway' carrots grow best in cooler temperatures and can survive temperatures as low as the upper 20s in Fahrenheit. They prefer a temperature range between 60°F and 70°F for optimal growth. They should be planted in the early spring or late summer to take advantage of cooler temperatures since extreme heat can cause carrots to bolt or develop a poor flavor.

Pruning

Pruning, or thinning, is vital for 'Flyaway' carrots to ensure they have enough space to grow. Thin the seedlings to 2 to 3 inches apart once they are an inch tall. Thinning is best done in the early stages of growth to avoid disturbing the roots later on. The ideal time for thinning carrots is in the evening when the sun is not too strong, to reduce stress on the plants.

Cleaning

Not needed

Soil

Flyaway carrots prefer well-drained soil enriched with organic matter and a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. A mix of loamy soil with compost and sand is ideal for proper root development.

Repotting

Flyaway carrots, a type of carrot, do not require repotting as they are grown as annuals and are harvested once their growing season is complete.

Humidity & Misting

Flyaway carrots, commonly known as carrots, tolerate a range of humidity levels and do not have specific humidity requirements.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Grow carrots in deep pots with ample light and loose soil.

• Outdoor

  Sow seeds in sunny spot, in loose, fertile soil; keep moist.

• Hardiness zone

  Flyaway carrots are typically grown in USDA zones 3-10.

Life cycle

'Flyaway' carrot begins its life cycle as a seed, which when sown in fertile and well-drained soil in a sunny location, will germinate within 1-3 weeks depending on conditions. The seedling stage follows, characterized by the emergence of the carrot's first true leaves, after which the plant enters the vegetative stage, focusing its energy on growing a strong root system and lush foliage. During this stage, thinning may be necessary to provide space for roots to develop. As the growing season progresses, the carrot elongates and accumulates nutrients in its taproot, the edible part. The 'Flyaway' variety, being biennial, will flower and produce seeds in its second season if not harvested, completing its reproductive phase. If left to overwinter, the plant will bolt (flower) the following spring, setting seeds before ending its life cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• Propogation: Daucus carota 'Flyaway', commonly known as the 'Flyaway' carrot, is typically propagated by seed. The best time to sow carrot seeds is in the early spring as soon as the soil can be worked, though seeding can continue through to mid-summer for a continuous harvest. To propagate, seeds should be sown directly into well-prepared, loose, and well-draining soil at a depth of approximately 1/4 inch (about 6 millimeters). Spacing between seeds should be about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 centimeters) to minimize the need for thinning. Carrots prefer full sun and regular moisture. Germination can take 1-3 weeks, and thinning is critical to avoid overcrowding and to ensure proper root development. Having been selectively bred for resistance to carrot fly, ‘Flyaway’ is an advantageous variety for gardeners dealing with this common pest.