How to Grow Cosmic Purple Carrots

Prepare a planting spot exposed to at least six to eight hours of sunlight per day. Use a tiller or shovel to work the soil to a depth of at least 10 to 12 inches.

Spread 1 inch of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, on top of the soil, and dig the organic matter into the soil.

Rake the soil so the surface is smooth. Pick out rocks and break up large dirt clods.

Create shallow furrows at least 12 inches apart, using the tip of a hoe.

Plant Cosmic Purple carrot seeds in the furrows, allowing about 1/2 inch between each seed. You can also use seed tape, which ensures even planting. Cover the seeds with no more than 1/2 inch of soil.

Water the area lightly with a hose and spray nozzle. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which may take up to three weeks, depending on the temperature.

Continue to water lightly the area, keeping the soil evenly moist, but never saturated. Too much water causes carrots to fork or become hairy and misshapen, while fluctuations in moisture cause cracks and a bitter flavor.

Thin Cosmic Purple carrots when the plants are about 2 or 3 inches high. Allow about 2 inches between each plant.

Apply a 1-inch layer of mulch such as shredded bark or dry grass clippings around the plants to keep the soil cool and moist during hot weather. Mulch also prevents the top of the carrots from turning green.

Remove weeds regularly, as weeds compete for soil moisture and nutrients. Hoe between the rows, but pull weeds near the plants by hand to prevent loosening the roots of the carrots.

Harvest when the tops of the carrots are 1 to 2 inches thick.