4. Carrots
These sweet cold hardy roots deserve beginner garden glory for being so obliging and carefree. Direct sow carrot seeds in loose, rock-free, compost-amended garden beds or deep pots. Nature and steady moisture do the rest.
Cover seeds sparsely with fine soil or vermiculite, 1⁄4 inch deep. Gently pat level and water in, then mist daily to maintain surface moisture until sprouting. Perfect conditions yield seedlings in 7-21 days.
Thin seedlings to proper spacing, at least 2-3 inches apart, when tops are 2-inches tall. Keep beds moist to hasten growth and prevent stunting or woody roots. Side dress with balanced organic fertilizer when tops reach 4 inches.
Check sizing by gently digging up carrots on the garden edge. Harvest all at once when roots reach desired size. Flavor improves after light frosts bring out carroty sweetness!
