Other Production Problems

Bitterness

Bitterness can be an issue in carrots or radishes. Bitterness occurs by formation of natural compounds when exposed to stress. In carrot, these compounds form when plants are heat-stressed (preharvest) or if exposed to ethylene in storage. In radish, high temperatures during growth increase the “hotness/ bitterness” in the bulbs.

Black Heart/Spotting

can be an issue in beet or rutabaga. Symptoms include strap-like leaves, or dark spots on the leaves, and hard black spots in the bulb. A localized boron deficiency causes the disorder, which can occur in high pH soils. It is managed by treating with 10-30 pounds of borax per acre.

Bolting

Bolting is the term used to indicate a plant that has transitioned from leaf (vegetative) growth to flower (reproductive) formation. Flower stalks can occur at any time during growth. Cool-weather crops like beet, carrot, parsnip, rutabaga, and turnip often bolt when planted early or overwintered. Plants exposed to several weeks of cool temperatures (<50 °F) trigger the response. Long days and hot temperatures trigger bolting in radish.

Cracking

Cracking is a problem in carrot, parsnip, and radish. Cracking occurs in older roots and is associated with poor irrigation practices. Keep soils moist to ensure steady growth, especially in sandy or drought-sensitive soils. When irrigation is erratic, roots take in more water and the root expands quickly and may crack. Large-rooted cultivars (or older roots) are more prone to split than small (younger) ones. Splitting or shattering can also occur at harvest, particularly if roots are very cold when dug.

Forking

Forking (fanging) can be a problem in carrot. Dense, compact soils, root obstructions (rocks, etc.), or other factors can deflect root growth. When the taproot is damaged, secondary roots grow and fill, giving it the forked look. Fertilizer placement, insect/disease damage, excess nitrogen, and using fresh manures also injure the root, resulting in branching.