Carrot
Daucus carota subsp. sativus • Apiaceae
🌱 Seed Category
Vegetable
🌍 Origin Region
Central Asia (Afghanistan region); widely adapted globally in temperate climates.
📅 Days to Maturity
65-75 days. Best harvested before the crown turns green or when roots reach desired diameter.
🌡️ Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 3-10. Grown as a biennial for seeds, but treated as an annual for root harvest.
About This Seed
Small, elongated, slightly flattened seeds approximately 2-4mm long, brownish-grey with distinctive longitudinal ridges. The resulting plant features feathery, bipinnate green foliage and a thick, tapered orange taproot reaching 6-8 inches long.
Growing Information
Growing Season
Spring or Fall; best direct sown when soil is workable. Frost tolerant.
Germination
Takes 10-21 days. Optimal soil temperature 55-75°F (13-24°C). Requires consistent moisture; avoid letting surface crust/dry out. High germination rate (80%+).
Planting Instructions
Planting depth: 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep. Spacing: 2 inches after thinning. Rows 12 inches apart. Prefers loose, sandy, well-draining soil with pH 6.0-6.8. Remove stones to prevent root forking.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (6-8 hours); constant moderate moisture. Avoid heavy overhead watering once roots are established to prevent splitting.
Companion Plants
Beneficial: Tomatoes (provide shade), Onions/Leeks (deter carrot rust fly), Rosemary. Avoid: Dill and Parsnips (due to shared pests and cross-pollination risks).
Special Characteristics
High in beta-carotene; heat tolerant variety; excellent for storage. Flowers attract beneficial wasps and lacewings if allowed to bolt.