Carrots, which are known botanically as Daucus Carota, are a type of vegetable that can easily be grown at home. Continue reading to learn the basics of growing carrots as well as common mistakes to avoid along the way.
Best Time to Plant Carrots
This will depend largely on your local climate, but as a rule of thumb, begin to plant the carrot seeds after the last danger of frost in spring. This is the best time to ensure that the seedlings survive the weather.
To check when carrots are most likely to thrive in your area, see the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. If you live outside the US, do a quick search for ‘plant hardiness zone + [city]’.
How to Plant Carrots the Right Way
There are a number of things to consider that will help you avoid some of the common mistakes of growing carrots in your home garden.
Often overlooked, your soil can have a huge impact on how well your carrots grow. Generally, your soil should be well-drained. Soil PH levels should be around 6 to 7.
3″ apart in hills 36″ apart. 2″ apart in rows 15″ apart. The seeds should be sowed at a depth of about 0.25-0.5″. For each plant, be sure to sow at least a few seeds to ensure that at least one of them will germinate.
Begin thinning your carrot seedlings 2″ apart when seedlings are 2″ tall.
How Much Sunlight is Needed to Grow Carrots
The amount of sunlight is another key to a successful harvest. Too much sunlight will dry out your carrots. Not enough sunlight will stunt your its growth or even kill it.
Ideally, your carrots should be getting full sun, which means as much sunlight as you can possibly give it, or at least 6 hours or more.
How Much to Water Carrots
As you’ve figured by now, a lot can have an impact on how well your carrots do, and the amount of water is no different.
Ideally, the soil should be damp to touch; not soggy or bone dry. If the leaves on your carrots begin to change colors or start to look droopy, you need to adjust how much water you’re giving it.
Unfortunately, if you give it too much or too little water, you can kill it, so it’s best to just keep an eye on it and water as needed.
How Long Does it Take Carrots to Germinate and Grow?
Now the fun part begins and you get to watch your carrots grow.
It takes approximately 8-12 days to germinate, and a total of 60 days from seed to harvest.
When to Harvest Carrots
The best time to harvest your carrots is when the shoulders are 1/2 to 3/4 inch (1.5 to 2 cm.).
Carrots can grow up to about 3/4 to 1 1/2 inches diameter at least 5 inches long.
What Can Carrots Be Used For?
Food Use: great additions to soups, stews, salads
Flavor Profile: sweet, woody, and earthy.
Can Carrots Grow in Pots and Containers?
No, it is generally not advised to grow carrots in pots or containers.
Are Carrots Safe for Bees?
Yes, carrots are safe for bees.
According to GreenPeace.org, bees pollinate human food crops that make up about 90% of the world’s nutrition.
Given their importance in our ecosystem and food supply, I feel it is important to note that growing carrots is bee-friendly.
