Flakkee Gigante is a late-maturing carrot that produces large, long roots with bright orange flesh. This is the variety to grow if you want carrots for winter storage. Sow in late spring, harvest in autumn, and keep them in sand or peat in a cool shed for months.
The roots are sweet and full-flavoured. Excellent for soups, stews and roasting. In a good year, one row of Flakkee will keep you in carrots well into January.
ðą Sowing information
Sow directly from March to July in wellâprepared soil. Carrots do not transplant well, so sow thinly in 1 cmâdeep drills spaced 25-30 cm apart. Cover lightly with fine soil and water gently. For staggered harvests, repeat sowings every 3-4 weeks through spring and early summer.
âïļ Light exposure
Prefers full sun for strong, even growth. Partial shade is tolerated but may reduce sweetness and root size.
ð§ Water needs
Keep soil evenly moist, especially during germination and early growth. Avoid waterlogging in heavy soils; raised beds or ridges can help drainage while still supporting straight, smooth roots.
ðĄïļ Germination temperature & time
Seeds germinate at soil temperatures from 7-20 °C, taking 10-21 days to emerge. Early sowings benefit from fleece or cloches to warm the soil.
ð Plant spacing & final size
Thin seedlings to 6-8 cm apart once they reach 2-3 cm tall. Roots can grow very large, often exceeding 25 cm in length, with a broad shoulder and cylindrical form.
ðž Harvesting notes
Harvest from late summer into autumn. Lift carefully with a fork to avoid snapping. This variety stores well in cool, dry conditions, making it excellent for winter use.
Bullet Technical Data
ðą Sowing depth: 1 cm in fine, stoneâfree soil
ð
Ideal planting months for Ireland: March-July
âïļ Light requirements: Full sun; partial shade tolerated
ðĄïļ Germination time: 10-21 days at 7-20 °C
ð Plant height: Foliage 25-35 cm tall; roots up to 25-30 cm long
