This carrot variety is perhaps the most popular of all late varieties. Bred by German breeders, the Red Giant was ideal for growing in Russia. Its roots are universally applicable, and their size fully justifies the name of the variety.
Variety characteristics
The Red Giant carrot is one of the most late-ripening varieties. When planted in May, the root crop can be harvested in August or September. This period is fully compensated by the yield of the variety. It is quite high: up to 4 kg of carrots can be harvested from a square meter.
The red giant got its name for a reason. Its red-orange roots can grow up to 25 cm in length and up to 6 cm in diameter. Their average weight will be 150 grams. In shape, the Red Giant resembles an elongated cone with a blunt tip. The cross section of the carrot exposes a medium-sized pith. The red pulp of this variety tastes very sweet and juicy. Due to the composition rich in vitamins, it is very useful for people of any age.
The Red Giant variety is resistant to many diseases and pests. Its distinctive feature is a long shelf life without loss of taste and marketability. In addition, this variety is excellent for planting before winter.
Growing recommendations
The optimal time for planting this carrot variety is late April - early May. It is then that the soil warms up to +10 degrees - the minimum temperature at which carrot seeds can germinate.
The Red Giant lands as follows:
- Small furrows are made in the garden bed. There should be no more than 20 cm between them, and their depth should not exceed 3 cm. Before planting the seeds, the furrows are spilled with warm, settled water.
- When the furrows have absorbed all the water, seeds can be planted. However, they should not be planted very often. A landing every 4 cm will be the most optimal. After planting, the furrows are covered with earth.
- The seedbed can be covered with foil or mulched. In this case, the film must be removed after the first shoots appear. It is recommended to leave the mulch until harvesting.
This variety of carrots is subject to thinning. It is produced in two stages:
- Two weeks after germination;
- When the root crop reaches 2 cm in diameter.
Caring for root crops consists in regular watering, weeding and hilling. Fertilization is possible, especially organic fertilizers.
When landing before winter, you must adhere to the following recommendations:
- disembarkation is carried out at the end of October at temperatures below +5 degrees;
- planting depth should not exceed 2 cm;
- the surface of the bed is mulched with peat.
The harvest of the Red Giant, planted before winter, can be harvested as early as mid-June.
