Now, in February, is the time to think about what varieties to plant this spring – so that you can harvest all summer and not reach for store-bought carrots in winter. If you dream of root vegetables that don't crack, don't stretch out, and remain juicy even in January, pay attention to these proven varieties. They grow well in open ground, are not afraid of the cool beginning of summer and produce a stable harvest from July until frost – without greenhouses and frequent fertilizing.
1. Nantes 4
The roots are cylindrical, 15–18 cm long, bright orange, with thin skin and a sweet core. Ideal for salads, juices and baby food. Productivity up to 6–7 kg per square meter. Ripens in 85–95 days and is well stored until spring.
2. Shantane 2461
Mid-season variety with a conical shape and rich taste. The root crops are dense, juicy, and almost never turn green at the base. Great for freezing, stewing and homemade preparations. Productivity – up to 8 kg/m². It tolerates short-term drought well and rarely gets sick.
3. Vitamin 6
Late-ripening record holder for carotene content and keeping quality. The roots are long (up to 20 cm), smooth, with rich orange flesh. Ideal for storage, remains firm and sweet until April. Productivity up to 9 kg/m² even on medium soils.
These varieties do not require daily care, are resistant to cracking and are rarely affected by Phoma or black rot. Simply plant the seeds in loose soil in May, water every 4-5 days and harvest in waves. While the neighbors are complaining about “wooden” carrots or rot in the cellar, you will already be taking juicy root vegetables out of the boxes for soup and filling the freezer with preparations for spring.
February tip: Order your seeds now as the best varieties often sell out by March. This way you will definitely be on time for sowing and ensure yourself a harvest for the whole year.
Question and answer:
When to plant carrots in open ground?
In the middle zone, carrots are planted in late April – early May, when the soil warms up to +8°C. For early harvest, you can use covering material.
What varieties of carrots are best to plant in 2026 for a good harvest?
In 2026, it is worth choosing proven varieties: Nantes 4, Shantane 2461 and Vitamin 6. They are resistant to diseases, produce high yields and are perfectly stored.
