Organic 'Chantenay à cœur rouge' carrot on a ribbon (Daucus carota subsp. sativus) from the McKenzie seed company, a short, thick and very nutritious carrot
The 'Chantenay Red Heart' carrot is a variety known for its short, thick roots , perfectly suited to heavier soils. The roots turn an attractive reddish-orange , with a less distinct core , and reach about 14 cm in length when mature. The flesh is crisp , dense , and pleasantly sweet , ideal for maintaining a consistent texture when cooked. This variety is also valued for its high nutritional value , particularly its high vitamin A and fiber content when eaten raw.
The seed tape makes planting simple and consistent, ensuring optimal spacing and uniform germination. Safe for bees and beneficial for pollinators , this carrot is a perfect fit for home vegetable gardens . It is particularly prized for dicing , cooking, and preserving. Successive sowings allow for a continuous harvest until mid-summer.
Please note: seed tapes require constant moisture to ensure optimal germination.
Companion plants: Onion, leek, chives, rosemary, sage
Plant enemies: None notable
Spread/Habit: Short, stocky root
Foliage height: Approximately 30 cm
Seed producer: McKenzie
Seed type: Heirloom
Physical seed type: Seed tape
Quantity per pack: 4.5 m ribbon, approximately 550 seeds
Special features: seed ribbon , red heart , heavy soils , rich in vitamin A , excellent diced
Root color: Reddish orange
Texture/flavor: crunchy, dense, sweet
Cold tolerance: Good tolerance to cool temperatures , sensitive to severe frost
Farming method
Sow directly in the garden once all risk of frost has passed and the soil temperature is between 7 and 29°C . Make shallow rows approximately 1.3 cm deep , spaced 30 cm apart. Unroll the seed tape into the furrow, water thoroughly, cover with about 6 mm of fine soil , then water again.
Maintain consistent moisture , essential for the seed tapes, without overwatering. Grow in full sun , in well-prepared soil, even more compact than for other types of carrots. Water regularly, with 2.5 to 5 cm of water per week . Sow successive batches every 2 to 3 weeks until mid-July.
Harvesting and preservation
Maturity is reached in approximately 70 days , when the roots have reached their maximum size and characteristic color. Harvest gently to preserve the short, thick shape of the roots.
Carrots keep well in the refrigerator for several weeks. They can also be blanched and frozen , or used fresh to maximize their nutritional value .
Usage ideas
• Diced carrots
• Boiling or steaming
• Sautéed in butter and herbs
• Soups and broths
• Freeze for later use
The organic ' Chantenay Red Heart' carrot on a ribbon from McKenzie Seeds is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking simplicity , consistency , and nutritional quality . Robust and flavorful, it offers reliable harvests even in heavier soils.
