How to Sow and Grow Carrots

Materials you’ll need to grow carrots

• Carrot seeds
• Poor quality peat-free compost – you can reuse old compost
• Sand
• Trowel
• Watering can
• A growing space of some kind

Sowing Carrot Seeds

Prepare the Soil:

• Ensure your soil is well-draining and free from large stones that can hinder carrot growth. Carrots thrive in loose, sandy soil. If your soil is heavy, consider adding sand or organic matter to improve drainage. Carrots also prefer low nutrient compost so this is a great opportunity to reuse old compost.

Choose the Right Time:

• Carrots can be sown directly outdoors from March to July, depending on your location in the UK. Aim for a time when the soil is workable and not too wet. Carrot seeds can take up to 14-21 days to germinate, so plan accordingly.

Sow the Seeds:

• Plant carrot seeds in shallow furrows, spacing them according to the variety’s recommendations (usually 5cm apart). Cover the seeds lightly with soil and water gently. Consider using a plank or board to gently press the soil over the seeds to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.

Thin Out Seedlings:

• Once the seedlings emerge, thin them to ensure proper spacing. Carrots need adequate space to develop, so thin them to the recommended distance (usually 2-4 inches apart).

Growing Carrot Plants

Watering:

• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply to encourage the carrots to grow longer roots. Be cautious not to dislodge the delicate seedlings during watering.

Feeding:

• Carrots don’t require feedings at all as this can cause them to branch – they’re super happy with a hard life.

Mulching (Optional):

• Mulching can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Apply a layer of straw or compost around the carrot plants, being careful not to cover the seedlings.  If you’re a no dig gardener there’s no need to add extra organic matter.

Protecting from Pests:

• Carrots are susceptible to pests like carrot fly. Consider using row covers or fleece to protect your crop. Companion planting with aromatic herbs like rosemary and sage can also deter pests.  Alternatively you can grow carrots in raised containers.  Carrot flies can’t fly higher than 1 metre, so if you grow at height you can avoid the problem!

Harvesting:

• Carrots are usually ready for harvest 10-12 weeks after sowing, but this can vary depending on the variety. Gently loosen the soil around the carrots with a fork before pulling them out to avoid breakage.