The Royal Chantenay Carrot was introduced in 1952 and is both adaptable and dependable.  It is a carrot variety that works in a wide range of both heavy clay and shallow soil types.  Royal Chantenay is a stout, thick carrot that reaches on average of 12-15 cm (5-6") long and about 5-10 cm (2-3½") wide at the shoulder. Tops grow to 45-61cm (18-15”) tall and spread to 20-30cm (8-12”) wide.  It is considered an excellent storage carrot. It is widely used a freezing and canning carrot, but it also makes for an excellent juicer carrot.  These dark orange carrots are amazingly sweet and the flesh is fined grained. The strong tops make it easier to pull this carrot.

Growing Instructions:

Carrots are cool season crops that can be grown in early spring or fall. Choose a location with full sun exposure and well-drained soil. Avoid soil that has rocks or is compacted, as this can cause the carrots to grow in a crooked manner. Sow seeds 1cm (½”) deep, spaced 2.5-5cm (1-2”) apart in rows spaced 30-45cm (12-18”) apart. Keep soil evenly moist during the germination period, which typically takes 10-14 days. Thin seedlings to 5-10cm (2-4”) apart when they are 2.5-5cm (1-2”) tall. Carrots prefer soil that is loose, loamy, and well-draining with a pH of 6.0-7.0. Fertilize with a low-nitrogen fertilizer at planting time, and again 4-6 weeks later. Carrots can take 60-80 days to mature, depending on the variety. Regular watering and careful weeding are important throughout the growing season. Harvest carrots when they have reached the desired size and color, typically around 2.5cm (1”) in diameter. Carrots can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks after harvesting.

Soil Conditions: Well-drained soil that is loose and loamy. Soil pH: 6.0-7.0. Planting Depth: Sow seeds 1cm (½”) deep. Germination: 10-14 days. Height at Maturity: 15-30cm (6-12”) tall. Days to Maturity: 60-80 days. Watering: Regular watering to keep soil evenly moist. Sun/Shade: Full sun exposure. Spacing after Thinning: Thin seedlings to 5-10cm (2-4”) apart.