Purple Sun

Carrot

Zone 6b Save Garden

🌱 75d to harvest Taproot

Silky, inky purple shoulders fade into a warm, honeyed core—Purple Sun Danvers carrots offer a striking, jewel-toned sweetness wi…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	Apr 25th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Apr 25th
Harvest Begins	Jul 9th
Harvest Ends	Oct 16th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	75
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Taproot
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	75
Min Soil Temp (°F)	45
Min Night Temp (°F)	28
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

Recommended Companions

Walla Walla White Onion

Huntington Carpet Rosemary

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most commonly affects Daucus carota (purple carrots), and how do I control it?

Carrot root fly (often seen as larval tunnels in roots) is the most common major pest in home beds, especially in warm, still weather. Cover seedbeds with fine mesh row cover as soon as seedlings emerge, keep weeds down, and remove any badly infested plants early to reduce fly attraction. If you see rotting, remove affected plants and avoid overwatering because Apiaceae roots are prone to rot when the soil stays wet.

How often should I water purple carrots during the main growing phase?

From thinning through root bulking, keep the top 2–3 in (5–8 cm) of soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, usually about 1 in (2.5 cm) per week total from rain plus irrigation. Water deeply when the surface begins to dry, then avoid frequent light sprinkling that can encourage shallow roots and forking. Aim for steady moisture through the whole 75-day period; drying out and then soaking can increase cracking and misshapen roots.

How can I tell when Daucus carota var. sativus ‘Purple Sun’ is ready to harvest?

Start checking around day 70, and plan to harvest at about 75 days when the root tops are clearly filled and the shoulders are well-developed above the soil. Gently pull one to confirm size, then harvest the rest promptly; leaving mature purple carrots in the ground too long can lead to tougher roots. For best flavor and color, harvest before heavy frosts when possible and avoid bruising the purple skin.

Silky, inky purple shoulders fade into a warm, honeyed core—Purple Sun Danvers carrots offer a striking, jewel-toned sweetness with a crisp, tender bite. At maturity (about 75 days), the roots form classic Danvers length and taper, staying pleasantly snappy for fresh use and roasting, while their vivid color also shines in vibrant sauces and pickles.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 45°F and nights stay above 28°F before moving outdoors.

Expert Note

Direct-sow Purple Sun carrot into cool, well-prepared soil and keep the bed consistently moist until emergence to reduce misshapen roots and bolting.