Carrots are a popular root vegetable known for their nutritional value and versatility in the kitchen. They come in a wide variety of sizes and colors and can be preserved for months making them a staple in my garden every year! In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to grow beautiful carrots, from seed sowing to storage.

Sowing Seeds

Carrot seeds are small and delicate, so it’s best to sow them directly in a garden bed or container as they do not transplant well. They are a cool season crop so they can be planted both early and late in the growing season. In the spring, they can be planted outdoors up to a month before your average last frost date. If you are planning on a second planting, do so after the peak of summer heat has passed.

Lightly loosen the soil and clear it of any rocks or sticks. Carrots are roots that need room to grow down and anything they run into under the soil can misshape or damage the vegetable. Create a shallow trench about 1/4 inch deep and sprinkle the carrot seeds down the line. Cover the seeds with soil and water gently. If you’re planting multiple rows, space them at least 8 inches apart.

Germination

During germination, it’s important to keep the soil moist. Carrot seeds do not require sunlight to germinate, so you can cover the soil with a piece of wood or sturdy plastic to help retain moisture. Just be sure not to let it touch the soil. Most carrot seeds will germinate within 14 to 21 days.

Thinning Seedlings

As the seedlings begin to grow, it’s crucial to thin them out to ensure proper spacing for optimal growth. This can be difficult, but it’s important to maintain a distance of 2-3 inches between each plant at the soil level. Choose the healthiest-looking carrot every couple of inches and carefully trim the rest of the seedlings in the soil. Avoid pulling them out, as this can disturb the roots of the keeper carrots.

Care

Carrots require consistent moisture for healthy growth, so it’s important to water them regularly. However, overwatering can cause the seeds to rot, so be mindful not to soak the soil. Applying an organic, balanced fertilizer every 3 to 4 weeks can also provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. 

Pests and Disease

Aphids can cause damage to carrot foliage by sucking the sap out of the leaves. They also excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can attract ants and lead to fungal growth. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to keep them at bay. 

Carrot Weevils can cause significant damage to carrot foliage and roots. They chew small holes in the leaves and lay eggs on the surface of the carrots. Handpicking the beetles and using organic insecticides can help control carrot weevils.

Carrots are also prone to fungal diseases like powdery mildew and carrot blight. You can prevent these diseases by spacing the plants properly to ensure good airflow.  Organic fungicides can be used if needed. 

Harvest

Carrots are ready to harvest when they reach a diameter of about 1/2 to 1 inch, depending on the variety. Gently pull them out of the soil by their tops, being careful not to damage the roots. Brush off any excess soil and cut off all but 1 inch of the green top as they can draw moisture away from the root and cause them to spoil faster.

Storage and Preservation

Carrots will store best in a cool, dark environment, ideally 32-40 degrees Fahrenheit. Whatever storage container you use, be sure they have some airflow. If you have a larger quantity of carrots, I suggest using a rubber tote with lightly dampened sand or wood shavings to create layers of sand and carrots. Check your stored carrots periodically and remove any that are showing signs of decay. 

Preservation Methods

• Pressure canning
• Freezing
• Dehydrating
• Carrot tops can also be used in pesto, soups, or dehydrated

Happy Growing!