Carrot 'Berlicum'
identification
description
‘Berlicum Coreless’ carrot (Daucus carota subsp. sativus), offered by Weston Seeds, is a highly regarded heirloom variety. Its bright orange roots average 15 cm (6 in.) long and reach up to 4 cm (1.5 in.) in diameter. Smooth-skinned and evenly cylindrical with blunt ends, they have a tender, crisp texture and mild flavour, even when harvested late. Their high moisture content also makes them well suited to fresh juice.
This carrot matures in 65 to 70 days, producing roots 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 in.) long and foliage 25 to 30 cm (10 to 12 in.) tall. Direct sow in full sun, in deep, loose, well-prepared soil once the soil temperature is above 7.5°C (45°F). Sow 7 to 15 mm (1/4 to 1/2 in.) deep, with rows 45 to 60 cm (18 to 24 in.) apart, then thin seedlings to 5 cm (2 in.) apart.
Mixing the seed with a little sand helps distribute it evenly. Keep the seedbed consistently moist during the two-week germination period without allowing a crust to form, and sow at five-day intervals to stagger the harvest. Weed carefully, water regularly and avoid high-nitrogen fertilizer to help prevent misshapen roots. Harvest when the roots reach the desired colour and size; enjoy them raw, cooked or juiced.
