Dharaseeds
Carlton - F1 - Asian Green Seed
Estimated delivery between February 04 and February 07.
The Carlton F1 Asian Green is a premium hybrid variety known for its rapid growth and high-quality leaves. This versatile Asian green is commonly used in stir-fries, salads, and soups, offering a mild flavor with a slightly spicy kick. It thrives in cool-season climates and is well-suited for both home gardeners and commercial growers. The Carlton F1 variety is renowned for its vigorous growth, disease resistance, and consistent leaf quality, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to cultivate fresh, flavorful greens.
Key Benefits
- Rapid Growth: Carlton F1 Asian Greens grow quickly, typically ready for harvest in 30–45 days.
- Mild, Slightly Spicy Flavor: Offers a pleasant balance of sweetness and mild heat, ideal for a variety of culinary applications.
- High Yield: Known for producing abundant, tender leaves, this variety is perfect for regular harvesting.
- Disease Resistance: The F1 hybrid offers enhanced resistance to common pests and diseases, ensuring healthy growth.
- Cold Tolerant: Ideal for growing in cooler seasons, Carlton F1 performs well in both spring and fall.
Plant Features
- Plant Characteristics: Carlton F1 is a leafy green with a rosette growth habit, producing vibrant, dark green leaves with a smooth texture.
- Flavor Profile: The flavor is mildly spicy with a hint of sweetness, making it a versatile ingredient in both raw and cooked dishes.
- Size: Grows to about 8–12 inches in height with a spread of 6–8 inches.
- Growth Habit: This variety grows in a compact form, making it ideal for small garden spaces or containers.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Spring and Fall: Carlton F1 thrives in cooler weather and can be planted in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest.
- Ideal Temperature: Best grown in temperatures between 55°F–75°F (13°C–24°C).
Planting Details
- Planting Depth: Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep.
- Spacing: Space seeds 4–6 inches apart, with rows spaced 12–18 inches apart.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5. Add compost or organic matter to improve soil fertility.
- Sunlight: Needs full sun to partial shade. In warmer climates, a little afternoon shade can help prevent bolting.
Care Instructions
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply to encourage strong root development.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting time, and side-dress with compost or organic fertilizer when plants are about 6 inches tall for optimal growth.
- Weeding and Mulching: Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Regularly weed to prevent competition for nutrients.
- Pest and Disease Control: Carlton F1 is relatively resistant to pests, but keep an eye out for aphids, flea beetles, and caterpillars. Use organic insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests. Rotate crops yearly to prevent disease buildup.
Harvesting
- Maturity: Ready to harvest in approximately 30–45 days, depending on growing conditions.
- Harvesting Method: Harvest outer leaves by cutting them at the base of the plant. For continuous harvesting, pick the leaves regularly and allow the center to continue growing.
- Method: Use garden scissors or shears to cut the leaves, ensuring not to damage the main stem for regrowth.
Storage
- Short-Term: Freshly harvested Carlton F1 leaves can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Keep the leaves in a perforated plastic bag or wrapped in a damp paper towel to maintain freshness.
- Long-Term: For longer storage, blanch and freeze the leaves. Blanching helps preserve flavor and texture.
Culinary Uses
- Stir-Fries: Carlton F1 makes an excellent addition to stir-fries, offering a mild heat and vibrant color when cooked.
- Salads: Young, tender leaves can be used fresh in salads for a mild, peppery flavor.
- Soups and Stews: Add chopped leaves to soups, broths, or stews for a flavorful boost.
- Pickling: Carlton F1 can be pickled, offering a tangy, slightly spicy flavor that works well in various Asian-inspired dishes.
Conclusion
The Carlton F1 Asian Green is a fast-growing, nutritious leafy vegetable that adds a mild yet spicy flavor to any dish. Its disease resistance, high yield, and cold tolerance make it a great option for both home gardeners and commercial growers. Whether used in stir-fries, salads, or soups, Carlton F1 is sure to enhance your meals with its delicious taste and vibrant color. Ideal for gardeners in both cool and mild climates, this variety is easy to grow and harvest, making it a must-have in any vegetable garden.