Carrot-Harvest and storage

Carrot becomes ready for harvesting within 100 to 120 days from sowing. The desired size is the primary consideration in harvesting the roots.

Generally, small to medium sized carrots are preferred. Oversized roots are not acceptable in market.  At marketable stage carrots should have at least 2.5 to 4 cm diameter at the upper end.

Roots grown on ridges are usually harvested after loosening soil with a spade and by pulling out roots by grasping top.  In flat ground, top is removed close to ground and roots are dug out with a spade.

A light irrigation is usually given before harvesting for easy uprooting. Harvested roots are put in mulberry basket and dipped in flowing water for washing.

Roots are then partially dried, trimmed and graded before sending to distant markets.