Growing Carrot

Daucus carota : Apiaceae / the umbelliferae family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
    P P P P P          

(Best months for growing Carrot in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • P = Sow seed
  • Easy to grow. Sow in garden. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 46°F and 86°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 2 - 12 inches apart
  • Harvest in 12-18 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Onions, Leeks, Lettuce, Sage, Peas, Radishes, Tomatoes, Beans, Celery, Rosemary
  • Avoid growing close to: Parsnips, Beetroot, Dill, Brassicas, Fennel

Your comments and tips

09 Apr 19, Rae Rakute (Australia - tropical climate)
Carrots are good to grow throughout Summer , Autumn , Spring.
02 Feb 19, Anne (New Zealand - temperate climate)
can i still grow carrot seeds now early February thanks
31 Jan 19, Stephen Meiklejohn (Australia - temperate climate)
My carrots have hard core and it is a different colour to the outer flesh
04 Dec 18, Tessa (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
Hi there. Rotating ctops is always a good idea to prevent build-up of pests and predatory fungi/bacteria in the soil. And alfalfa, comfrey (non-invasive varieties) and parsley are great for replenishing the soil. But I suspect in this case it's to avoid any carrot fly maggots that may still be present in the soil. Whatever cover you use needs to be weighed down at the edges to prevent access by the fly for laying eggs.
06 Nov 18, janico (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
Must you trim the leaves regularly to promote growth or do you leave as is
01 Nov 18, Colin Low (Australia - temperate climate)
I have had trouble growing carrots and I think now because of the chicken & cow manure is too acid. I have limed the area where this year's crop will be tried & my question is "How long do I need to wait before planting the seed? cheers Colin
01 Nov 18, Mike (Australia - temperate climate)
Your main problem was probably the addition of the manures. Carrots do not need or like a rich soil (N) - it produces too much leaf. Carrots prefer a loose loam kind of soil - as in not heavy clay. A loose soil that is crumbly. If adding compost/manures do it months before planting carrots or grow something else before planting the carrots. A couple of weeks should be sufficient with the lime - mix it in well and water it and turn it over once or twice. Plant carrots thinly - can use a small salt shaker with some sand mixed with the seeds.
04 Oct 18, Mpumelelo (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
Can carrots be transplanted, If yes after how long?
28 Feb 21, Bee-Pie (South Africa - Humid sub-tropical climate)
It can be done with extra care. Carrots and the carrot family generally do not enjoy their roots being disturbed. It is better to sow in situ.
03 Oct 18, Lulama Dimba (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
Good morning Am preparing to plant carrot and my market wants the carrots by January 2019 what advise you can give me. I like to use organic fertilizer is it a good idea? Thank you Lulama
Showing 91 - 100 of 368 comments

it could be cockchafers, there are a number remedies available (if you are not organic) from your local garden supply store more for your lawn though but can still be used in the garden

- matthew

Please provide your email address if you are hoping for a reply


All comments are reviewed before displaying on the site, so your posting will not appear immediately

Gardenate App

Put Gardenate in your pocket. Get our app for iPhone, iPad or Android to add your own plants and record your plantings and harvests

Planting Reminders

Join 60,000+ gardeners who already use Gardenate and subscribe to the free Gardenate planting reminders email newsletter.


Home | Vegetables and herbs to plant | Climate zones | About Gardenate | Contact us | Privacy Policy

This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
We cannot help if you are overrun by giant slugs.