Unwins Carrot Market 5 Atlas Seeds are a Paris market type of carrot. These early-maturing carrots...Unwins Carrot Market 5 Atlas Seeds are a Paris market type of carrot. These early-maturing carrots produce smooth, round roots. Easy to grow with good fungal disease resistance, these are ideal for container growing due to their small size. These can be harvested when they are between 2 and 3cm in diameter, adding a very cute addition to your dinner plate. Rich in vitamin A. Suitable for freezing. Sowing Outdoors: Sow thinly, 1cm deep, in shallow, pre-watered drills in soil that hasn’t been manured in the last 12 months. Keep soil moist at all times. Protect early sowings with cloche or fleece. Thinning: Thin seedlings to 5–8cm apart. Avoid crushing the leaves, as their scent attracts carrot root fly. Aftercare: Carrots do best on light, stone-free, fertile soils. Use fleece to protect against low-flying carrot root fly. Roots store well if cleaned and packed in boxes of dry sand or compost.
Unwins Carrot Seeds - Market 5 Atlas - 750 Seeds are ideal for home gardeners looking for an easy-to-grow, early-maturing carrot variety, especially those with limited space or for container gardening. The key benefit is their compact size and smooth, round roots, making them visually appealing and suitable for quick harvests. A caveat to consider is the need for consistent moisture and protection from carrot root fly.
All features
Model Part Number
750
Brand
Unwins
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What is the best soil type for these carrots?
Carrots do best on light, stone-free, fertile soils. Avoid soil that has been heavily manured in the last 12 months, as this can cause forking.
How deep should I sow the seeds?
Sow the seeds thinly about 1cm deep in pre-watered drills.
When can I harvest these carrots?
These are early-maturing carrots. They can be harvested when the roots are between 2 and 3cm in diameter.
Why is thinning important?
Thinning allows each carrot sufficient space to develop its root to the optimal size (5-8cm apart). Crowded carrots will compete for resources and result in smaller, potentially misshapen roots.
Are these carrots suitable for freezing?
Yes, these carrots are suitable for freezing after harvest.
How can I protect my carrots from carrot root fly?
Using fine netting or fleece to cover the growing area, especially after thinning, is the most effective method to prevent carrot root fly from laying eggs near the plants.
Can I grow these in containers?
Absolutely. Their small size and compact nature make them ideal for container growing.
Troubleshooting
Seeds not germinating
Ensure the soil is kept consistently moist and at an appropriate temperature for germination. Check that seeds were sown at the correct depth.
Poor root development
Thin seedlings adequately to give roots space to grow. Ensure the soil is not compacted and is free from stones. Check for adequate sunlight.
Pest infestation (e.g., carrot root fly)
Use fine netting or fleece to cover the plants, particularly after thinning, to prevent adult flies from laying eggs.
Fungal diseases on leaves
Ensure good air circulation and avoid overcrowding. The 'Market 5 Atlas' variety has good resistance, but persistent issues may require improved soil drainage or removal of affected foliage.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Easy to grow, suitable for beginners.
Compact root size is ideal for containers and quick meals.
Good fungal disease resistance promotes healthier plants.
Nutritious, being rich in Vitamin A.
Versatile for freezing.
Cons
Requires consistent soil moisture to thrive.
Susceptible to carrot root fly, requiring protective measures.
Best suited for light, stone-free soils for optimal growth.
Thinning is necessary to ensure proper root development.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Sowing Outdoors:
Choose a location with light, stone-free, fertile soil that has not been recently manured (within the last 12 months).
Prepare shallow drills and water them before sowing.
Sow seeds thinly, approximately 1cm deep.
Keep the soil consistently moist throughout the germination and growth period.
Protect early sowings with a cloche or fleece, especially in cooler weather.
Thinning:
Once seedlings are established, thin them to stand 5–8cm apart. Be careful not to crush the leaves, as their scent can attract carrot root fly.
Aftercare:
Use fleece to protect plants from carrot root fly, especially during their early stages.
Carrots store well if harvested, cleaned, and packed loosely in boxes filled with dry sand or compost.
Compatibility:
These seeds are compatible with standard garden soil and container growing media.