Carrot problems

[ladylottie]

Iv'e just started pulling some of my carrots (Early Nantes 5). They are a nice size and look healthy. The only problem is - most of them taste bitter and some of them are woody. A few are ok and are lovely and sweet.

What could cause this to happen? I have two full 16 foot rows and hope they aren't all the same.

[gojiberry]

Not sure what would cause the bitterness, the woodyness is usually caused by lack of water and the plant growing under stress. I know we have had plenty of rain recently but there was a fairly long dry spell several months ago. What sort of soil are they growing in.

Ian

[Snadger]

Agree that lack of water could cause 'woodiness' Carrots also seem to have a paler colour if starved of water.

[ladylottie]

Thanks both. Actually now you've mentioned it, a lack of water might be the problem as part of the row (where the woody carrots were) seems to get dry very quickly. The other end of the row doesn't dry out so much. Next time I'm up the lottie I'll try pulling some carrots from that end and see how they are.

The bitterness remains a mystery!