Growing Guides How to grow carrots

Date Published:

15/10/2007

Caring

Once the carrots have successfully germinated and are thinned out, they will require little attention other than to keep the soil moist by regular watering in dry weather.

If the roots are allowed to dry out, they can become woody and tough. Don't be tempted to add fertiliser to the crop as it is growing - although this will produce plenty of lush foliage, it will be at the expense of root size.

Earlier on in the season, carrots will benefit from a sunny aspect to warm the soil and boost their growth rate.

Maincrop varieties, however, will appreciate some shade in a hot summer (horticultural fleece can help to provide it).

Harvesting

Early varieties of carrot will be ready to harvest approximately 12 weeks from sowing, and maincrop varieties after about 16 weeks.

When to harvest is really a matter of personal taste: the younger roots are sweeter and tender, so lift them as soon as you think they are large enough.

Lift the remaining carrots once the foliage begins to wilt and turn yellow, and certainly before the end of October. After harvesting, firm down the soil and water it well.

To store your crop over the winter months, remove the foliage, pack unblemished roots in boxes in-between layers of sand and store them in a garage or dry, frost-free shed.

Check the boxes periodically, removing any carrots that appear rotten.