Production and quality evaluations of processing carrots

Root yield and quality were evaluated in 15 carrot (Daucus carota) cultivars for use in processing. Marketable yield varied between the fall and spring production seasons for seven of the 15 cultivars with the highest yields recorded in the fall. 'C 8771' and 'Heritage' had the highest yields in Fall 2003. 'Bremen' and 'Neptune' were the highest yielding in Spring 2004. Root length was longest in the fall for a majority of cultivars with 'PS 103397' being the longest in the fall and 'Pipeline' longest in the spring. Forking of roots did not vary significantly for either season. Field color ratings were taken to indicate color differences between the interior core and cortex of the roots. 'Florida', 'Heritage', 'Kamaran', and 'C 8771' had consistently less difference between the core and cortex colors. Based on consistent yield and color uniformity, the authors would recommend the use of 'C 8771' and 'Kamaran' for both spring and fall production seasons in Oklahoma and the use of 'Heritage' and 'Florida' for fall production.