Growing, Harvesting and Using Carrots
Close-up of harvested carrots. Photo by Jeff Harbrow
Description
Carrots are one of the most rewarding vegetables to grow in the garden - nothing compares to the joy of pulling homegrown carrots and the surprise that lies beneath the soil! Carrots come in a variety of sizes including narrow, shorter varieties such as Baby Carrots, a perfect option for growing in containers or larger varieties such as Nantes Carrots. Carrots also come in a variety of shapes and colours from purple, red and yellow.
Growing conditions
The main thing to know when growing carrots is soil type. Carrots prefer soil that is well-draining and not compacted. Often adding organic matter and sand is recommended for clay soils to ensure that the growing medium is light and fluffy, allowing the root to grow straight down. Remove any larger rocks, stones (or larger pieces of bark if using potting mix in containers) from the soil as these will inhibit growth and cause stunted or wonky carrots that may attract disease and rot.
If growing in containers, ensure that they are 30cm wide and deep, depending on how many carrots you are planting.
Carrots prefer full sun, and although can be grown all year round in most climates, extreme heat will prevent roots from developing, whilst cold temperatures will result in thinner carrots.
Carrot seedlings. Photo by Jeff Harbrow
Sowing Carrot Seeds
Carrots do not like being transplanted as seedlings, so growing from seed is recommended. Seeds can be sown all year round outside of frost and extreme heat. Plant seeds 0.5cm deep and 2-5cm apart, thinning as needed. Seeds require constant moisture to germinate so ensure that soil is kept moist using a mist setting which won’t displace seeds. Alternatively, planks of wood or moist cotton fabric can be placed over the seeds to ensure the soil holds moisture. Remove immediately once seeds have germinated. As the carrots grow, ensure that weeds are kept under control as they can compete with the plant nutrients and space. For a continuous supply, succession sow every two to three weeks.
Harvesting and Using Carrots
Carrots can be harvested within 9-12 weeks depending on the variety and can be picked young as baby carrots or growing to full size. To harvest, loosen soil with a garden fork and carefully pull the carrot out of the soil.
Homegrown organic carrots are best enjoyed fresh in salads, coleslaw or just as a snack in the garden. They will also add delicious flavour to soups, stews or make a perfect side dish when roasted with honey. Carrots can be stored for up to a few months in cool, dark conditions such as a cupboard or fridge but can also be persevered by cooking and then freezing, baked as carrot chips or dehydrated. Carrot leaves are also edible, tasting similar to parsley and can be used in pesto, sautéed with garlic, or added to vegetable broths.
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