Parisian Carrot is a charming heirloom variety celebrated for its small, round roots and sweet, tender flavor. These golf ball-sized carrots are perfect for fresh snacking, roasting, or adding to soups and stews. Thriving in full sun and loose, well-draining soil, Parisian Carrots mature in just 60-65 days, making them one of the fastest-growing and most rewarding varieties for home gardeners. Their compact size makes them ideal for small garden spaces, raised beds, or containers, and they thrive even in shallow or rocky soils. The smooth skin and crisp texture make these carrots easy to clean and prepare, while their sweet taste delights gardeners and chefs alike. Parisian Carrots are not only a practical choice for tight spaces but also a visually appealing addition to your vegetable garden. Whether you’re cultivating them for their petite size, delicious flavor, or quick harvest, Parisian Carrots are a delightful and versatile option.
Carrot - Parisian - Daucus carota
Biennial Heirloom. Round, small, and bursting with sweetness. Eat these adorable French heirlooms raw or give them a quick steam. Easy to grow even in compacted soil since they don’t have to put down deep roots. Try these if you previously had bad luck with carrots.
Did You Know?‚ÄÇThese round carrots are popular in France.
Soil & Water: Carrots prefer light, deeply tilled soils with plenty of added organic matter, good drainage, a pH range of 6.0-6.6, and regular water. Parisienne is forgiving of compacted soil. Apply a mulch layer once established to keep roots cool. Carrots develop best at a soil temperature of 60-70°F.
Planting & Growing: Seed directly 2-3 weeks before the last frost. Carrots germinate quickly at a soil temperatures of 75°F, but will germinate in soils as cold as 45°F just more slowly. Mix the small seeds with dry coffee grounds or sand to improve seed distribution. Over planting requires thinning to provide sufficient growing room.
Harvesting & Storage:‚ÄÇIf necessary, loosen soil to pull carrots without breaking off tops. Trim off foliage to extend storage time. Layer roots in a container with paper towels and store in cool, moist conditions. Also good for canning or freezing.
Soil Temperature: 45-85°F
Planting Depth: 1/4"-1/2"
Germination: 6-20 Days
Height At Maturity: 6"-10"
Days to Maturity: 50-68 Days
Sun/Shade: Sun
Spacing After Thinning: 2"-3"
Approx Seeds per Pack: 500 Seeds
Parisian carrots, also known as "Paris Market" or "Tonda di Parigi," are a unique and delightful addition to the world of carrots. These miniature carrots have their own distinct charm and culinary potential.
Characteristics of Parisian Carrots
Parisian carrots are known for their petite size and round, almost spherical shape. Unlike traditional long carrots, these carrots are compact, making them an excellent choice for small gardens or container gardening. Here are some key characteristics of Parisian carrots:
Size: Parisian carrots typically reach a diameter of about 1 to 1.5 inches when fully mature, making them perfect for snacking or adding to dishes as a decorative element.
Color: They feature a vibrant orange hue, much like their larger counterparts, and have a smooth, uniform skin.
Flavor: Parisian carrots offer a sweet and crisp texture, making them a delightful addition to salads, stir-fries, and other culinary creations.
Culinary Uses
Parisian carrots can add a unique touch to your culinary endeavors. Their small size and sweet flavor make them versatile in the kitchen. Here are some creative ways to use Parisian carrots in your dishes:
Snacking: These mini carrots are perfect for snacking. Their small size makes them easy to dip in hummus, ranch dressing, or other favorite dips.
Salads: Add a pop of color and flavor to your salads by slicing or grating Parisian carrots and tossing them with other fresh vegetables.
Roasting: Roasting Parisian carrots with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs can bring out their natural sweetness and create a delicious side dish.
Garnishes: Use Parisian carrots as decorative garnishes for dishes like coleslaw, sandwiches, or appetizers. Their round shape adds visual appeal to your presentations.
Growing Parisian Carrots
If you're interested in cultivating Parisian carrots in your garden, here are some essential tips to consider:
Soil Preparation: Parisian carrots thrive in well-drained, loose soil. Prepare the soil by removing stones and debris to ensure the carrots have room to grow evenly.
Planting: Sow Parisian carrot seeds directly into the garden bed or container, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Ensure the seeds are planted at the right depth, approximately ¼ inch deep.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Carrots benefit from even moisture to prevent cracking or splitting.
Thinning: As the carrots begin to grow, thin them out to provide ample space for each to develop fully. Leave about 2-3 inches of space between each carrot.
Harvesting: Parisian carrots are typically ready for harvest within 50-60 days after sowing. Gently pull them from the soil when they reach their mature size.
Storage: Store harvested Parisian carrots in a cool, dark place. They can stay fresh for several weeks when stored correctly.
Parisian carrots offer a charming and flavorful addition to your garden and kitchen. Their petite size, vibrant color, and sweet taste make them a versatile choice for snacking, salads, roasting, and garnishing. With the right growing conditions and care, you can enjoy these delightful mini carrots in your culinary creations, adding a touch of elegance and flavor to your dishes.
Check out our Carrot Growing Guide for more information.
