Response of carrot (Daucus carota L.) cultivars to different sowing dates on growth and yield

Abstract

Amongst the root vegetables, carrot (Daucus carota L.) is a popular cool season root vegetable. It is grown in spring, summer and autumn in temperate climate and during winter in tropical and subtropical climate. The area under this vegetable crop is increasing rapidly but the production per unit area is very poor. One of the major factors responsible for low yield of this crop is its climatic limitations. Changes in environmental condition including the day and night temperatures associated with planting date affect carrot growth and yield. It is difficult to raise the good quality carrot roots because of excessive forking and splitting, if crop is grown very early in season. Many agronomic practices need to be adjusted to maximize yield and quality of carrot roots.