Carrots
The carrot is one of the most commonly produced vegetables in the world. It is a fairly robust plant, although, it has a preference for temperate climates. It can stand light frosts when the plant is in dormancy, however, high temperatures accelerate the processes of root aging, loss of color, etc.
It prefers sandy, airy and fresh soils, rich in well decomposed organic matter and potassium, with a pH between 6,5 and 7. Compact and heavy soils generate fibrous roots, of less weight, size and length, which also increases the risk of rot. Therefore, it is important to ensure an optimum soil structure.Carrots need a correct water balance in the soil, mostly during the beginning of cultivation and the stage of root thickening. Carrots require regular irrigation, and do not tolerate salinity. Drought periods can cause fibrosity in the tissue. An excess of water has a negative effect on the color and the final quality. Furthermore it promotes fungal diseases and bacteria.