Malbec

Carrot

70d to harvest

Sweetly earthy and richly aromatic, Malbec Danvers Carrot brings a deep, wine-kissed allure to the garden—tender when young, with a crisp, snap-forward texture that holds its character. Its classic Danvers silhouette develops into a smooth, well-shaped root with a vivid, saturated tone that feels almost velvety in the hand. Grow Malbec for standout color and dependable harvest timing, ideal for showcasing in fresh displays, vibrant roasts, and vivid sauces that benefit from its naturally sweet depth.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 11a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	—
Climate	Frost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Oct 1st
Harvest Begins	Dec 10th
Harvest Ends	Feb 28th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	70
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Taproot
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	45
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my carrots (Daucus carota var. sativus) getting holes or tunnels, and what should I do?

Holes and sawdust-like frass on roots are often carrot fly maggots. Protect plants with fine row cover once seeds germinate and keep it on until you harvest; also remove nearby weeds that can host adults. If infestation is already present, pull and discard the worst roots, thin crowded seedlings for better airflow, and avoid replanting carrots in the same bed for at least 2–3 years.

How often should I water carrots during the main growing phase to keep roots straight and avoid splitting?

From about 3–4 weeks after germination through root enlargement, keep the top 1–2 in of soil consistently moist, typically about 1 inch of water per week total (more during hot, dry spells). Water in deep, less-frequent cycles rather than light sprinkles—uneven moisture can cause root cracking and misshapen roots.

How can I tell when carrots are ready to harvest (about 70 days)?

Start checking around day 70: the top of each root should show well-developed shoulder color at the soil surface and the roots should feel firm rather than rubbery. If you can’t see much shoulder, gently loosen soil beside a plant and pull one to test size—most varieties are sweetest when they’re harvested promptly after they reach a usable diameter.