Carrot Growing Guide

All you need to know to grow successfully!

Plant Family:
Apiaceae
Plant Type:
Biennial

Square Foot Spacing:

16
Typical Season:
Cool season
Typical Zones Grown In:
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Growing Difficulty:
Easy

Carrots are a popular root vegetable that are widely cultivated for their sweet, crunchy flesh and bright orange color. They are a good source of vitamins A, K, and C, as well as other nutrients. Carrots can be eaten raw or cooked and are commonly used in soups, stews, and salads. They are a cool-season crop that prefer well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. When harvesting carrots, it’s best to pick them when they are young and tender for optimal flavor and texture. Carrots are easy to grow and a popular choice for home gardeners who want to add a nutritious and delicious vegetable to their diet. They come in many different varieties, including orange, purple, white, and red.

How to Grow Carrots Organically

Here is a brief guide on how to grow carrots organically:

  1. Soil preparation: Carrots prefer loose, well-draining soil that is free of rocks and clumps. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 6.8.
  2. Planting: Carrots can be planted in the spring or fall. Sow the seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart in rows that are spaced 12-18 inches apart. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate.
  3. Thinning: When the seedlings are 1-2 inches tall, thin them to a spacing of 2-4 inches apart. Use scissors to snip off the tops of the unwanted seedlings at the soil line to avoid disturbing the roots of the remaining seedlings.
  4. Watering: Carrots need consistent moisture to grow properly, so water deeply and regularly. Be careful not to overwater, as this can cause the roots to rot.
  5. Fertilizer: Carrots do not need a lot of fertilizer, but a balanced organic fertilizer can be applied sparingly when the seedlings are 3-4 inches tall.
  6. Pest control: Carrots are susceptible to pests such as carrot rust flies, aphids, and nematodes. Use organic methods to control these pests, such as row covers, beneficial insects, and companion planting with onions or chives.
  7. Harvest: Carrots are ready to harvest when they reach their mature size, usually 2-3 months after planting. Gently pull the carrots from the soil, taking care not to damage the roots. Carrots can be left in the ground for a while after maturity, but be sure to harvest them before the ground freezes.

By following these steps, you can successfully grow carrots organically and enjoy a bountiful harvest of these nutritious and delicious root vegetables.

Planting Guidelines

The following are general guides to follow. However, nothing is set in stone. Feel free to experiment!

How to Start:
Direct Sow
When to Direct Sow:
April, May, June, July, August
When to Start Indoors:
Sprouting Time:
14-21 days

Ideal Temperature (C):

7-30
Depth:
5mm (¼”) deep
Spacing (cm):
4 seeds per 2cm (1″). It is very important to thin carrots in order to allow them room to grow, and so they don’t compete for available nutrients, moisture, and light.
Row Spacing (cm):
Sun Exposure:
Full Sun
Maturity Time:
75-110 days
When To Harvest:
July, August, September, October, November, December
How to Harvest:
All carrots can be harvested immature as baby roots, which tend to be crunchy but tender, and quite sweet. They can also be left to reach their full size, shape, and colour, of course.

Health Benefits

Growing your own food is one of the best things you can do for your health. Let’s check out some of the health benefits!

Is It Edible?
Yes
Edible Parts:
Leaves and root (carrot)
Potential Health Benefits:
Eye Health, Cancer-Fighting , Heart Health

Tips to Growing Organically

Growing without the use of pesticides and herbicides is easier than you may think and it’s better for the environment!

Companion Plants:
Bean, Broccoli, Kale, Cauliflower, Cabbage, Brussel Sprouts, Chive, Leek, Lettuce, Onion , Pea, Pepper, Radish, Rosemary, Sage, Tomato
What Plants to Avoid:
Dill, Parsnip, Potato
Common Pests:
Carrot Rust Fly, Wireworms
Common Disease:
Bonus Grow Tips:
Carrots will become misshapen, but still edible if they hit anything hard as they grow down into the soil.

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