Hi Tui, my carrots have been grown in a raised bed, and I would like to know why some of them have a 'woody' core. Your advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

Hi Murray, carrots should be planted directly into the soil rather than transplanted, they require a light free draining soil with good drainage. There are several things that can cause carrots to go "woody". Environmental factors such as too hot and dry, or too cold and wet, irregular watering, poor drainage or leaving the carrots in the ground for too long. Also, excessive nitrogen, so adding too much nitrogen rich compost or organic matter or fertiliser to the soil. Apply a fertiliser high in phosphorus to promote root development such as Tui Vegetable Food. Apply a mulch around plants to conserve soil moisture and to prevent the soil heating up excessively, and water little and often. The Tui Team.