Nantes Scarlet
75d to harvest
Sink your spoon into the vivid sweetness of Nantes Scarlet—its roots ripen to a rich, warm scarlet-orange with a fine, tapered silhouette and a crisp, tender bite. The flesh stays delightfully smooth and juicy, with a classic Nantes texture that shines in fresh salads and quick-roasting trays, or shines through in bright sauces and vivid pickles. A cool-season favorite for gardeners who love reliable, uniform roots that look as striking as they taste.
Crop Dates
Growing note: In frost-free Zone 13b, 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 15th |
| Harvest Ends | Feb 28th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 75 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Rosette |
| Support Needed | None |
| Planting Depth | Surface |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 70 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 45 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 28 |
| Harden Off (days) | Not Required |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water Nantes Scarlet carrots during the main growing phase?
During active root bulking (roughly weeks 4–10), keep the top 1–2 in (2.5–5 cm) of soil consistently evenly moist—typically about 1 in (2.5 cm) of water per week total, adjusted for heat and rainfall. Water deeply, then avoid letting the soil dry out completely; fluctuations can lead to cracking and misshapen roots. Use a gentle flow to prevent washing seeds/seedlings and water early in the day.
How can I tell when Nantes Scarlet carrots (Daucus carota var. sativus) are ready to harvest?
Harvest when roots are fully colored and typically about finger-thick (often around 1/2–3/4 in / 1.3–2 cm) and reach the packet timing of about 75 days. If you see the shoulder of the root lifting at the soil surface, check one for diameter before pulling the rest. For best sweetness, harvest on a dry day and avoid leaving them too long in hot weather, which can reduce quality.