Learn how to grow carrots in your garden with this handy guide, including sun requirements, spacing, planting tips, and more!
Soil
What soil is good for Carrots?
Carrots require a loamy, sandy soil. The soil must be loose, free of debris and clumps to avoid malformation and forking.
Position
How much sun do Carrots need?
Full sun
Frost Tolerant
Are Carrots frost tolerant?
Tolerate light frosts
Spacing
How much space do Carrots need?
Minimum 10cm apart
Planting
When should I plant Carrots?
Carrots are cool season crops. Carrots will struggle in temperatures below 10°C (50°F) or above 24°C (75°F).
They 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.
Feeding
What do I feed Carrots?
An organic, low nitrogen fertiliser can be added if needed. Too much nitrogen will promote leafy green top growth rather than root growth.
Harvesting
When can I harvest 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
What pests do Carrots get?
Aphids, Carrot Rust Fly, Millipedes, Slugs, Snails, Root Knot Nematodes, Carrot Weevil, Flea Beetle, Leafhopper
Diseases
What diseases do Carrots get?
Leaf Blight, Powdery Mildew, Black Rot, Cottony Rot, Downy Mildew, Cavity Spot, Damping-off
Troubleshooting
How do I troubleshoot my growing problems?
Malformation and forking can be avoided by having light soil which is free of debris.