How to Feed Carrots in August So They Grow Big, Sweet, and Crack-Free

August is one of the most important months for carrots, because during this period the root crops actively grow, gain weight, juiciness, and flavor. To grow carrots evenly, without cracking, and store well for winter, gardeners should adjust their care and select the right fertilizers. Specialists emphasize: at the end of summer the plant primarily needs potassium and phosphorus, and should avoid nitrogen-based fertilizers. Which fertilizers should not be used for carrots in August In this period it is not recommended to fertilize carrots with nitrogen-based fertilizers — urea, ammonium nitrate, manure, or bird manure. Excess nitrogen can negatively affect yield quality: the roots begin to deform, branch, crack, become less juicy and worse at storage over winter, writes Zemliak.com. What to fertilize carrots with for a sweet harvest For large, even, and tasty roots in August carrots need three main elements — potassium, phosphorus, and boron. Potassium-phosphorus fertilization To prepare a nutritious solution in 10 liters of water dissolve: 15−20 g of potassium sulfate; 15−20 g of superphosphate. The mixture is applied to the rows after the soil has been pre-moistened. Wood ash Ash is a natural source of potassium and trace elements. It not only nourishes the plant but also helps reduce soil acidity. It can be used in two ways: scatter between rows at a rate of one glass per 1 square meter and loosen the soil; prepare a tincture for watering. Boric acid Bor helps avoid cavities inside carrots and reduces bitterness of the roots. For foliar spraying, dissolve 2 g of boric acid in 1 liters of hot water, then bring the solution volume to 10 liters. How to water carrots properly in August In addition to fertilizing, it is important to monitor the irrigation regime. Sudden changes in conditions — from severe drought to excessive moisture — often cause root cracking. Watering should be regular and moderate, without sharp fluctuations in soil moisture. What to do if the carrot protrudes from the soil If the top part of the root is above the soil surface, it should be covered with earth. Under sun exposure the exposed part of the carrot forms solanine, which can give the root a bitter taste. Experienced gardeners know that watering vegetables with cold water can lead to serious problems. Relatively resistant to cold watering are cabbage, carrots, beets, and radishes. The worst tolerance to sudden temperature changes is shown by cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, watermelons, and melons.