How to grow Carrots

Learn how to grow Carrots in your garden with this handy guide, including sun requirements, spacing, planting tips, and more!

Carrots require a loamy, sandy soil. The soil must be loose, free of debris and clumps to avoid malformation and forking. 

Plant Carrots in a full sun position. 

Yes, Carrots will tolerate light frosts. 

Plant Carrots a minimum of 10cm apart. 

Carrots are cool season crops. Carrots will struggle in temperatures below 10°C (50°F) or above 24°C (75°F). 

Carrots should be directly sown into the soil rather than transplanted, as the seedlings are very fragile and do not like having their roots disturbed.

Directly sow seeds in autumn, winter (in mild climates) and early spring for a continuous supply throughout the year. Lightly cover the seeds with soil, or just water them in and allow them to sink into the soil naturally. 

An organic, low nitrogen fertiliser can be added if needed. Too much nitrogen will promote leafy green top growth rather than root growth.

Carrots can be harvested over a long period, you will generally notice the base of the Carrot at the surface of the soil when it is close to, or ready for harvest. You can also move the soil around the surface to check the diameter of the carrot before harvesting. 

Pests that affect Carrots include: Aphids, Carrot Rust Fly, Millipedes, Slugs, Snails, Root Knot Nematodes, Carrot Weevil, Flea Beetle, Leafhopper. 

Diseases that affect Carrots include: Leaf Blight, Powdery Mildew, Black Rot, Cottony Rot, Downy Mildew, Cavity Spot, Damping-off. 

Malformation and forking of Carrots can be avoided by having light soil which is free of debris.