The soil should be fumigated for nematodes. 4 3. Planting The rows are generally spaced from 200 to 400 mm apart. In double or triple rows, gp the width between sets of rows range from 400 to 600 mm. Row spacings in baby carrots production may be 100 mm. A planting density of 150 to 160/m2 gives good results in double rows whereas a density of 100/m2 is ideal for single rows. The seeds are directly sown in the field on ridges or raised beds. Row planting is preferred to broadcast sowing. The seeding depth should be 10 to 25 mm or 40 mm in loose, light sands. Planting depth should be shallow on heavier soils and in colder months. Slightly deeper planting is recommended in summer when the soil dries out quickly.
Fertiliser recommendations should be based on soil analyses. As a general guide, 100 kg/ha fertiliser mixture of 2:3:4 (24) should be worked into the soil before planting. Limestone ammonium nitrate at a rate of 100 to 200 kg/ha should be applied as a topdressing approximately 8 weeks after planting. Compost should not be applied since they cause unattractive, hairy roots, with a coarser texture. Watering should gradually be reduced to prevent longitudinal splitting of the roots when the crop approaches maturity. Water stress during root development also causes cracking of the roots, which also become hard.