Carrot (Daucus carota subsp. sativus)

(Daucus carota subsp. sativus) are among the most universally grown, if not the best-loved of vegetables. Because of their wide appeal — vibrant colors, diverse shapes and sizes, culinary versatility, and nutritional value — demand for carrots will always be strong. They can be a little tricky to grow, even for experienced growers. Demand is reliably strong, however, so getting the hang of raising carrots can be well worth it. Carrots provide the benefits of long storage potential, high dollar value, and universal familiarity among consumers.

Temperature

Soil temperatures of 40°F and higher are best for germination. A range of 60-70°F is when the root and leaf growth is best.

Soil

A soil that is well-draining, and has a pH of 6.0-6.8 is preferable for carrots. For great quality roots that are straight and smooth, sandy loams and peat soils that have good moisture-holding ability are necessary. Be sure that the soil is loose, deep, and fertile, as a shallower depth may only be sufficient for shorter varieties. A heavier soil is fine for half-long or round types.

Planting

Sowing may take place from early spring to mid-summer. The plants should be 1-2” apart, ½” deep, and a 2”-wide band, this should be roughly 30 seeds/ft. Keep soil moist and do not allow it to crust before seedling emergence, temperature, and moisture depending, this will take 1-3 weeks. Thin seedlings 3/4-2” apart based on the desired root size. Cover exposed crowns to prevent greening. Keep the field weed-free by tine weeding and shallow hoeing.

Spacing

The variety being grown determines the spacing, along with the top height. Small-rooted/top varieties may be planted closer than the larger types. The width of the cultivation equipment should be taken into account as well. 1-2” in row, with 18-24” between rows.

Harvest

After carrots reach a desired size, they may be dug at any time. Processing varieties are a minimum of 1¹⁄₂ inches at the shoulder and the roots 4” or larger in diameter. Fresh markets are dug when they are ³⁄₄- to 1¹⁄₄” in diameter. While baby or mini carrots are preferably ¹⁄₄- to ¹⁄₂” in diameter, and are not to exceed ³⁄₄” in diameter.

The harvest period lasts roughly 3 weeks, the roots start to crack, and quality declines beyond this point. Sow at 3-week intervals so there is a supply of high-quality, tender carrots throughout the season. Test a few carrots before harvest to ensure they are all ready as growing conditions change days to maturity. Make sure the carrot tips are full and that the flavor is optimally developed.

Carrots

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