Introduction

The carrot is a root vegetable often claimed to be the perfect health food. It is crunchy, tasty, and highly nutritious. The fiber in carrots can help keep blood sugar levels under control. And they’re loaded with vitamin A and beta-carotene, which there’s evidence to suggest can lower your diabetes risk. They can strengthen your bones. Carrots have calcium and vitamin K, both of which are important for bone health.

Uses

Carrot is a key ingredient in making:

  1. Soap
  2. Oil
  3. Body lotion.
  4. Juice

Production, export, import and consumption in Nigeria

Production =236620 , Export =0 , Import =1 . (Source: FAOSTAT)

Growing Carrot

Carrots, being a root crop, simply won’t develop properly in heavy clay or stony soils. For best appearance and a sweet flavor, they need soil that’s friable, well-drained, neutral to alkaline, and not too rich in nitrogen. Grow Bags are a good option for urban gardeners, who often have little space but plenty of sun.

Duration and Season

Carrot is a cold-weather crop, and it also does well in warm climates. The optimum temperature for getting efficient growth is between 16 to 20 °C, while temperatures above 28°C drastically reduce top growth. Carrots are propagated using seeds. The germination of some local varieties may be inadequate.

Sowing and harvest period

Carrots should be ready for harvest 70 to 80 days after planting. Pull them from the soil when the roots are 1 to 1½ inches in diameter. To avoid breaking the carrot while pulling, loosen the soil around the carrot with a spade.

Main Producing States in Nigeria.

  1. Plateau
  2. Kano
  3. Kaduna
  4. Sokoto
  5. Jos.

Relevant Agencies in Nigeria.

  1. (NACAGPROMAN) National Carrot Growers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria.

Are you interested in this business opportunity and would like to know more? We can also facilitate funding if you wish to setup the business.

Was this article helpful?
YesNo

Similar Posts