How to Grow Carrots ~ Kings Seeds

Carrots thrive when grown from seed; transplanting seedlings usually fails. Growing your own carrots can be a rewarding and delightful way to enjoy fresh produce straight from your garden. These crunchy, sweet vegetables can add a splash of colour to your meals and provide vital nutrients. Whether you're just starting out or been growing carrots for years, this complete carrot guide will walk you through every essential step on how to grow the best carrot crop ever.

 

Essential Garden Prep for Carrots

Before you even think about planting those tiny seeds, let's talk preparation. Carrots thrive in well-drained, loose soil that allows their long roots to develop without any obstacles to move around. Start by choosing a sunny spot that gets at least six hours of sunlight a day.

1. Soil Preparation: Loosen the top 30cm of soil and mix in some organic compost to enrich it if needed and sand to provide a free draining soil. Watch tips here.

2. Weed and Clear: Remove any existing weeds and stones to create a loose and clear space for growing. Weeds compete for nutrients and space, so this step is crucial for success. 

 

How to Sow Carrot Seeds

Now comes the fun part: sowing those carrot seeds! 

- When to Sow Carrot Seeds: In most regions, the best time to sow carrot seeds is in early spring and late summer. If you're in New Zealand, you'll want to plant between September and November or February and April for best results.

  To sow carrots, follow these simple steps:

1. Create Rows/Pockets: Make shallow rows or pockets about 5mm deep in the prepared soil. Space them 5cm within row, 20cm between rows to allow ample room for growth.

2. Sow the Seeds: Carefully sprinkle the tiny seeds into the rows, add some sand or soil to your seeds before sowing to help with spacing. Don't worry too much about perfect spacing; just do your best!

3. Cover Lightly: Gently cover the seeds with soil and pat it down lightly. 

Germinating Your Carrot Seeds

Once you've sown your seeds, it's essential to keep them damp and dark so they germinate. 

- Water newly sown seeds.

- Cover with garden cloth, or wooden planks to keep damp and dark.

- Check moisture levels and germination every few days.

- Once germinated, uncover and protect from birds and cats digging up.

- Don't let the soil dry out for those first few weeks after germination.

 

How to Grow Carrots in Pots

Not everyone has the luxury of a large sprawling garden, but that is not reason to stop you from growing delicious carrots! 

1. Choose the Right Pot: Opt for deep pots (at least 30cm deep) to accommodate the carrot roots.

2. Soil Preparation: Use a lightweight potting mix. Ensure it's well-aerated and mixed with compost for nutrients.

3. Sowing: Follow the same sowing technique as mentioned before; just be conscious of how many seeds you're planting based on the size of the pot and the awareness that containers and pots can dry out faster.

 

Caring for Your Carrot Plants

Now that you've planted those seeds, it's time to care for them.

Watering

How much water do carrots need? Carrots require consistent moisture in that first month; then after 4 weeks, you can ease off, letting the top 1cm of soil dry out between watering. Water them thoroughly right after sowing and keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Aim for about an inch of water per week, adjusting based on rainfall and temperature.

Thinning

Thinning is a vital part of growing carrots to ensure each plant has the room it needs to grow into a luscious root. Thin carrots out when they are 10-15cm tall giving each carrot space to grow and consuming the ones you have thinned out. Do not replant these as carrots hate to be transplanted.

Fertilising

Feed your plants with a low-nitrogen fertiliser that has a high phosphorus & potassium content a few weeks after seedlings have emerged to promote root growth.

Weeds and Pests

Keep an eye out for weeds, which can detract from your carrots' growth. Hand-pull any weeds that pop up, and consider using organic pest deterrents if you notice any critters munching on your plants. A great companion plant for carrots is onions to help repel pests.

Carrot Growing Tips

- Rotate Your Crops: Crops should be planted in different areas of your garden each year to prevent soil depletion.

- Companion Planting: Consider growing carrots alongside onions or garlic, which can help deter pests.

- Watch for Crowding: Ensure that your carrots have enough space to grow by thinning them; overcrowded plants can stunt growth and lead to malformed roots.

 

How to Grow Carrots Step-By-Step

1. Choose a bright, sunny location and prepare your garden bed.

2. Loosen soil and mix in compost and/or sand.

3. Sow carrot seeds about 6mm deep and 5cm apart.

4. Water thoroughly and keep the soil consistently moist to germinate (covering with plastic covers, garden cloth or wood planks can help).

5. Thin seedlings as they grow to prevent crowding.

6. Maintain regular care: watering, weeding, and feeding.

 

Growing Carrots FAQs

How long do carrots take to grow?

It generally takes approximately 60 to 80 days from sowing to harvest, depending on the variety.

What month do you plant carrots in NZ?

In New Zealand, you typically plant carrots in spring from September to November. They can be grown with care any time of the year, with winter being the least successful time to sow carrots. 

When do you sow carrot seeds?

Sow carrot seeds once the soil temperature reaches around 7-9°C. Spring and autumn are best.

How much water do carrot seeds need?

Carrots need about an inch of water per week for proper growth, ensuring consistent moisture without overwatering.

 

Growing carrots can be a fun and fulfilling endeavour for all. With a little bit of planning, the right methods, and attention, you can grow a vibrant crop of fresh carrots that make your meals even more delicious. So, roll up your sleeves and start your carrot-growing journey today! Head along to our website and check out the great range of carrots we have on offer to grow, from table carrots, rainbow carrots, giant carrots to animal feed carrots, we have plenty to choose from at Kings Seeds.