Carrot
Carrot is a vegetable in the Apiaceae family. It grows best in full sun with medium moisture, and is listed for USDA zones 2-13. Plants reach harvest about 47–115 days after planting and sit about 3 inches apart.
Varieties
43 from Seeds Now, High Mowing & True Leaf Market · sorted by days to maturity▸Little Fingers47–63 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Super easy to grow
The Little Finger carrots are one of the quickest to grow. - 4" cylindrical roots - Tender and sweet variety - Many can be grown in a small space - Carrots are a sun-loving plants that also like the cold. - Just keep them consistently watered and they'll be happy. Days to Maturity | 55 days Carrot Seeds | Carrots are an annual cool-season crop, half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Sow seeds evenly in a very shallow furrow, about 1/4 inch deep, and keep seeds moist so they will germinate. Click here for complete Carrot grow guide Additional Details Carrot gets its characteristic and bright orange colour from β-carotene, which is metabolised into vitamin A in humans when bile salts are present in the intestines. Carrots are also rich in dietary fibre, antioxidants, and minerals.
Growing notes: Carrots are an annual cool-season crop, half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Sow seeds evenly in a very shallow furrow, about 1/4 inch deep, and keep seeds moist so they will germinate.
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Napoli F147–63 days
Long storage; 5-7” Nantes-type
Resistance: IR: Alternaria Leaf Blight; Black Rot; Cercospora Leaf Blight; Cavity Spot; Liquorice Rot
An early, versatile carrot for all seasons. Great flavor and color as an early spring or baby carrot, but will continue to grow to full size for fresh market or storage. Great for high tunnels and one of Eliot Coleman’s top choices for overwintering. Available as raw or pelleted seed.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Carrots are hardy biennials that do best in fertile, sandy loam. For more compact soils, choose tapered carrots like Chantenays or Danvers types that can wedge their way into soils. Prepare raised beds by loosening soil and raking smooth. Direct seed as soon as soil can be worked in the spring. Seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge and may require thinning to 1” apart. Ensure constant moisture during germination. Plant every three weeks for a continual harvest. Carrots hold well in the field for up to three weeks in the summer and longer in cool conditions. Some varieties may be overwintered outdoors or in a high tunnel for an early spring harvest. For storage carrots, dig roots after frost but before ground freezes.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Parisian51–69 days
Heirloom; Container; Vegetable
60 days. Parisian Carrot Seeds. Daucus carota subsp. sativus. Non-GMO. Heirloom. The Parisian Carrot is unique in both its shape and ability to grow in difficult soils. This carrot variety grows roots that are very short and squat, they are practically in a globe shape. Because of their short growth pattern, they can be grown in heavy soils where long carrots are difficult to grow. Like all carrots, it does best in well-drained and sandy soils, but unlike others, it can grow in rocky soil. ~18,000 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Solar Yellow (Organic)51–69 days
Heirloom; Organic; Non-GMO; Vegetable
Daucus Carrota (60 days) Yellow carrots have been around for a long time. As far as researchers can document, they originated in the Middle East sometime in the 900s. Now that is an heirloom carrot! Solar Yellow is a danvers type carrot that reaches about 6-7" in length. Approx. 18,200 seeds per ounce.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Yaya F151–69 days
Uniform size; Bunching or storage; 6” Nantes-type
Resistance: IR: Black Rot; Cercospora Leaf Blight; Cavity Spot; Liquorice Rot
The standard for commercial growers. Truly stellar flavor and crispness with blunt barrel shape. Versatile and suitable for storage, bunching or soup-grade carrots; compares well to Nelson F1 with better uniformity. One of the most well-known varieties from our friends at Bejo Seeds. Available as raw or pelleted seed.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Carrots are hardy biennials that do best in fertile, sandy loam. For more compact soils, choose tapered carrots like Chantenays or Danvers types that can wedge their way into soils. Prepare raised beds by loosening soil and raking smooth. Direct seed as soon as soil can be worked in the spring. Seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge and may require thinning to 1” apart. Ensure constant moisture during germination. Plant every three weeks for a continual harvest. Carrots hold well in the field for up to three weeks in the summer and longer in cool conditions. Some varieties may be overwintered outdoors or in a high tunnel for an early spring harvest. For storage carrots, dig roots after frost but before ground freezes.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Paris Market55–75 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Super easy to grow
Paris Market is a small, round carrot suited to containers, shallow beds, and rocky soil. Its roots are typically about 2 inches across, with a sweet flavor and crisp texture that works well fresh, steamed, or roasted.
Growing notes: Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep|Spacing between plants: 2" apart|Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart|Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days|Germination soil temps: 65F-85F|Soil needs: 6.0-6.8 pH|Sun needs: Full sun|Hardiness: Half-hardy to frost and light freezes|Planting season: Spring, fall|# of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 16 plants per sq. ft|Days to maturity: 55-75 days
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Red Cored Chantenay55–75 days
Processing and storage; 6” Chantenay-type
Broad-shouldered variety with sweet, old-fashioned carrot flavor. Wide shoulders, a tapered root and a blunt, rounded tip; thrives in heavy soils. Fine- grained texture and a characteristic red core. A great variety for soups, freezing, canning and storage. Introduced in France in the late 1800s and quickly became the processing industry standard.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Carrots are hardy biennials that do best in fertile, sandy loam. For more compact soils, choose tapered carrots like Chantenays or Danvers types that can wedge their way into soils. Prepare raised beds by loosening soil and raking smooth. Direct seed as soon as soil can be worked in the spring. Seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge and may require thinning to 1” apart. Ensure constant moisture during germination. Plant every three weeks for a continual harvest. Carrots hold well in the field for up to three weeks in the summer and longer in cool conditions. Some varieties may be overwintered outdoors or in a high tunnel for an early spring harvest. For storage carrots, dig roots after frost but before ground freezes.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Scarlet Nantes55–75 days
Storage; 6-8” Nantes-type
High yields with fine texture and classic carrot flavor. Our improved strain offers enhanced uniformity and a more even rate of maturity. Bright red-orange flesh with fine grain and almost no core. Very cylindrical roots with blunt tips and smaller tops for bunching or storage. A great choice for the garden. Limited availability in 2024
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Carrots are hardy biennials that do best in fertile, sandy loam. For more compact soils, choose tapered carrots like Chantenays or Danvers types that can wedge their way into soils. Prepare raised beds by loosening soil and raking smooth. Direct seed as soon as soil can be worked in the spring. Seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge and may require thinning to 1” apart. Ensure constant moisture during germination. Plant every three weeks for a continual harvest. Carrots hold well in the field for up to three weeks in the summer and longer in cool conditions. Some varieties may be overwintered outdoors or in a high tunnel for an early spring harvest. For storage carrots, dig roots after frost but before ground freezes.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Autumn King60–80 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Super easy to grow
The Autumn King carrot is one of the more popular varieties to grow. Its split-resistant skin turns to a deep dark orangish/red color as it matures. - One of the largest of carrots! Grows 10" - 12" long - Easy to grow in sandy soil - A favorite of many home grower - Carrots are a sun-loving plants that also like the cold - Just keep them consistently watered and they'll be happy Days to Maturity | 70 days Carrot Seeds | Carrots are an annual cool-season crop, half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Sow seeds evenly in a very shallow furrow, about 1/4 inch deep, and keep seeds moist so they will germinate. Click here for complete Carrot grow guide Additional Details Carrot gets its characteristic and bright orange colour from β-carotene, which is metabolised into vitamin A in humans when bile salts are present in the intestines. Carrots are also rich in dietary fibre, antioxidants, and minerals.
Growing notes: Carrots are an annual cool-season crop, half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Sow seeds evenly in a very shallow furrow, about 1/4 inch deep, and keep seeds moist so they will germinate.
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Chantenay60–80 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Super easy to grow
Plant produces high yields of 5 ½" long orange carrots - Rarely splits - Grows well in winter - Easy to grow - Perfect for home gardens or market growers Days to Maturity | 70 days Carrot Seeds | Carrots are an annual cool-season crop, half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Sow seeds evenly in a very shallow furrow, about 1/4 inch deep, and keep seeds moist so they will germinate. Click here for complete Carrot grow guide Additional Details Carrot gets its characteristic and bright orange colour from β-carotene, which is metabolised into vitamin A in humans when bile salts are present in the intestines. Carrots are also rich in dietary fibre, antioxidants, and minerals.
Growing notes: Carrots are an annual cool-season crop, half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Sow seeds evenly in a very shallow furrow, about 1/4 inch deep, and keep seeds moist so they will germinate.
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Cosmic Purple60–80 days
Specialty appeal; 7” Danvers-type
Stunning roots with deep purple skin, orange flesh and a hint of spice. These tapered roots steal the show in salads with their extraordinary color combination and sweet flavor with a bit of spice. Tremendous gourmet appeal at market. Developed by Dr. Philipp Simon and staff at the USDA ARS in Madison, Wisconsin in 2005.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Carrots are hardy biennials that do best in fertile, sandy loam. For more compact soils, choose tapered carrots like Chantenays or Danvers types that can wedge their way into soils. Prepare raised beds by loosening soil and raking smooth. Direct seed as soon as soil can be worked in the spring. Seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge and may require thinning to 1” apart. Ensure constant moisture during germination. Plant every three weeks for a continual harvest. Carrots hold well in the field for up to three weeks in the summer and longer in cool conditions. Some varieties may be overwintered outdoors or in a high tunnel for an early spring harvest. For storage carrots, dig roots after frost but before ground freezes.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Danvers 12660–80 days
Processing and storage; 6-7” Danvers-type
Reliable, stocky variety with broad shoulders and deep orange color. Bright orange conical roots with rugged tops strong enough to withstand being pulled. Displayed superior disease resistance in our trials and thrives in heavy soils. A great variety for canning, freezing, juicing and storing; had the highest Brix reading of any of our varieties, even after months of storage. Resists splitting.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Carrots are hardy biennials that do best in fertile, sandy loam. For more compact soils, choose tapered carrots like Chantenays or Danvers types that can wedge their way into soils. Prepare raised beds by loosening soil and raking smooth. Direct seed as soon as soil can be worked in the spring. Seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge and may require thinning to 1” apart. Ensure constant moisture during germination. Plant every three weeks for a continual harvest. Carrots hold well in the field for up to three weeks in the summer and longer in cool conditions. Some varieties may be overwintered outdoors or in a high tunnel for an early spring harvest. For storage carrots, dig roots after frost but before ground freezes.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Heritage Rainbow Blend60–80 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Start indoors; Super easy to grow
The Heritage Rainbow Blend is a mix of different colored carrots. - 7" long and 2" thick with thickly tapered ends - Tender and very sweet - Carrots are sun-loving plants that also like the cold. Days to Maturity | 70 days Carrot Seeds | Carrots are an annual cool-season crop, half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Sow seeds evenly in a very shallow furrow, about 1/4 inch deep, and keep seeds moist so they will germinate. Click here for complete Carrot grow guide Additional Details Carrot gets its characteristic and bright orange colour from β-carotene, which is metabolised into vitamin A in humans when bile salts are present in the intestines. Carrots are also rich in dietary fibre, antioxidants, and minerals. Follow SeedsNow.com's board Carrots on Pinterest.
Growing notes: Carrots are an annual cool-season crop, half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Sow seeds evenly in a very shallow furrow, about 1/4 inch deep, and keep seeds moist so they will germinate.
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Kuroda60–80 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Super easy to grow
Plant produces high yields of flavorful 8" long orangish red carrots. - Very popular asian carrot. - Suitable for home garden or market growers. - Grows well in raised beds and compact spaces. Days to Maturity | 70 days Carrot Seeds | Carrots are an annual cool-season crop, half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Sow seeds evenly in a very shallow furrow, about 1/4 inch deep, and keep seeds moist so they will germinate. Click here for complete Carrot grow guide Additional Details Carrot gets its characteristic and bright orange colour from β-carotene, which is metabolised into vitamin A in humans when bile salts are present in the intestines. Carrots are also rich in dietary fibre, antioxidants, and minerals.
Growing notes: Carrots are an annual cool-season crop, half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Sow seeds evenly in a very shallow furrow, about 1/4 inch deep, and keep seeds moist so they will germinate.
View on Seeds Now ↗▸St. Valery/James Scarlet60–80 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Super easy to grow
Old French variety that produces extremely sweet and delicious carrots up to 12” in length Tender, sweet, and smooth roots Also known as the “James Scarlet” Days to Maturity | 70 days Carrot Seeds | Carrots are an annual cool-season crop, half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Sow seeds evenly in a very shallow furrow, about 1/4 inch deep, and keep seeds moist so they will germinate. Click here for complete Carrot grow guide Additional Details Carrot gets its characteristic and bright orange colour from β-carotene, which is metabolised into vitamin A in humans when bile salts are present in the intestines. Carrots are also rich in dietary fibre, antioxidants, and minerals.
Growing notes: Carrots are an annual cool-season crop, half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Sow seeds evenly in a very shallow furrow, about 1/4 inch deep, and keep seeds moist so they will germinate.
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Starburst Blend60–80 days
HMOS EXCLUSIVE; Specialty appeal; 7-9” roots
A certified organic carrot blend made with improved variety strains for reliable production. This rainbow of sweet and crunchy roots will delight people of all ages with striking shades of white, yellow, orange and purple. Our improved strain of Scarlet Nantes orange is the star of the blend, providing enhanced color and uniformity over our previous strain for a more even mix overall. Flavorful, extra nutritious roots of all colors are packed with antioxidants and add vibrant color to salads, mixed bunches and crudités.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Carrots are hardy biennials that do best in fertile, sandy loam. For more compact soils, choose tapered carrots like Chantenays or Danvers types that can wedge their way into soils. Prepare raised beds by loosening soil and raking smooth. Direct seed as soon as soil can be worked in the spring. Seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge and may require thinning to 1” apart. Ensure constant moisture during germination. Plant every three weeks for a continual harvest. Carrots hold well in the field for up to three weeks in the summer and longer in cool conditions. Some varieties may be overwintered outdoors or in a high tunnel for an early spring harvest. For storage carrots, dig roots after frost but before ground freezes.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Tendersweet60–80 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Super easy to grow
One of the sweetest and best tasting carrots you can grow! - Skinny 7" tapered roots - Easy to grow - Carrots are a sun-loving plants that also like the cold. - Just keep them consistently watered and they'll be happy. Days to Maturity | 70 days Carrot Seeds | Carrots are an annual cool-season crop, half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Sow seeds evenly in a very shallow furrow, about 1/4 inch deep, and keep seeds moist so they will germinate. Click here for complete Carrot grow guide Additional Details Carrot gets its characteristic and bright orange colour from β-carotene, which is metabolised into vitamin A in humans when bile salts are present in the intestines. Carrots are also rich in dietary fiber, antioxidants, and minerals.
Growing notes: Carrots are an annual cool-season crop, half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Sow seeds evenly in a very shallow furrow, about 1/4 inch deep, and keep seeds moist so they will germinate.
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Yellowstone60–80 days
Productive; Mild flavor; 9” roots
Resistance: IR: Alternaria Leaf Blight; Black Rot; Cercospora Leaf Blight; Liquorice Rot
Long, sunflower-yellow carrots with strong, feathery tops. Extremely productive and adaptable to many growing conditions; one of the easiest carrots to grow. Strong tops are ideal for bunching. Pick early for a sweet, tender, mildly flavored treat that kids will love.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Carrots are hardy biennials that do best in fertile, sandy loam. For more compact soils, choose tapered carrots like Chantenays or Danvers types that can wedge their way into soils. Prepare raised beds by loosening soil and raking smooth. Direct seed as soon as soil can be worked in the spring. Seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge and may require thinning to 1” apart. Ensure constant moisture during germination. Plant every three weeks for a continual harvest. Carrots hold well in the field for up to three weeks in the summer and longer in cool conditions. Some varieties may be overwintered outdoors or in a high tunnel for an early spring harvest. For storage carrots, dig roots after frost but before ground freezes.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Naval F161–83 days
Stores well; 7” Nantes-type
Resistance: IR: Alternaria Leaf Blight; Black Rot; Cercospora Leaf Blight; Liquorice Rot; Powdery Mildew
Long, uniform roots and strong, healthy tops make a standout market display. This early-maturing slicing variety has a strong following for its versatility. Tops are healthy and durable for bunching and fresh market sales, while the roots are comparable to Bolero F1 for long term storage. Excellent flavor right out of the field. Moderate resistance to Alternaria and powdery mildew. From our partners at Bejo Seeds. Available as raw or pelleted seed. The team at Ralph's Greenhouse bunching carrots from an abundant, uniform planting in Mount Vernon, Washington. Naval F1
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Carrots are hardy biennials that do best in fertile, sandy loam. For more compact soils, choose tapered carrots like Chantenays or Danvers types that can wedge their way into soils. Prepare raised beds by loosening soil and raking smooth. Direct seed as soon as soil can be worked in the spring. Seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge and may require thinning to 1” apart. Ensure constant moisture during germination. Plant every three weeks for a continual harvest. Carrots hold well in the field for up to three weeks in the summer and longer in cool conditions. Some varieties may be overwintered outdoors or in a high tunnel for an early spring harvest. For storage carrots, dig roots after frost but before ground freezes.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Amarillo Yellow64–86 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Super easy to grow
Amarillo Yellow heirloom carrot has an 8" long yellow root with bright yellow flesh - Sweet flavor and extremely tender - Easy to grow - Grows well in containers and raised beds - Very popular variety Days to Maturity | 75 days Carrot Seeds | Carrots are an annual cool-season crop, half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Sow seeds evenly in a very shallow furrow, about 1/4 inch deep, and keep seeds moist so they will germinate. Click here for complete Carrot grow guide
Growing notes: Carrots are an annual cool-season crop, half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Sow seeds evenly in a very shallow furrow, about 1/4 inch deep, and keep seeds moist so they will germinate.
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Bollin64–86 days
Good flavor; All season production; Long storage; 6-8” Nantes-type
Bright orange, moist textured roots with upright, healthy foliage and excellent storage. A uniform and reliable open-pollinated variety with good field holding quality and great carrot flavor. Around 20 days earlier than Dolciva, with a mild sweetness fresh out of the ground. Tops hold up well late into the growing season, allowing for extended bunching. A true standout in our trials field for all season performance.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Carrots are hardy biennials that do best in fertile, sandy loam. For more compact soils, choose tapered carrots like Chantenays or Danvers types that can wedge their way into soils. Prepare raised beds by loosening soil and raking smooth. Direct seed as soon as soil can be worked in the spring. Seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge and may require thinning to 1” apart. Ensure constant moisture during germination. Plant every three weeks for a continual harvest. Carrots hold well in the field for up to three weeks in the summer and longer in cool conditions. Some varieties may be overwintered outdoors or in a high tunnel for an early spring harvest. For storage carrots, dig roots after frost but before ground freezes.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Miami F164–86 days
Long storage; Uniform 6-8” Nantes-type
Resistance: IR: Alternaria Leaf Blight; Black Rot; Cercospora Leaf Blight; Cavity Spot; Liquorice Rot
Consistently uniform cylindrical roots with exceptionally sweet carroty flavor. Bright orange roots grow stouter as they mature with attractive feathery tops perfect for fresh market bunches. Well adapted for early or main season successions. Very long storage; compares well to Bolero F1. Retained its great flavor long into the winter in our storage trials. Newly available as raw or pelleted seed.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Carrots are hardy biennials that do best in fertile, sandy loam. For more compact soils, choose tapered carrots like Chantenays or Danvers types that can wedge their way into soils. Prepare raised beds by loosening soil and raking smooth. Direct seed as soon as soil can be worked in the spring. Seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge and may require thinning to 1” apart. Ensure constant moisture during germination. Plant every three weeks for a continual harvest. Carrots hold well in the field for up to three weeks in the summer and longer in cool conditions. Some varieties may be overwintered outdoors or in a high tunnel for an early spring harvest. For storage carrots, dig roots after frost but before ground freezes.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Nutri-Red64–86 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Super easy to grow
The Nutri-Red carrot is a brilliant red color with a tinge of orange . - 9" long slim tapered ends. - Excellent for stews and many culinary creations. - Tender and very sweet with a strong carrot flavor. - Carrots are a sun-loving plants that also like the cold. - Just keep them consistently watered and they'll be happy. Day to Maturity | 75 days Carrot Seeds | Carrots are an annual cool-season crop, half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Sow seeds evenly in a very shallow furrow, about 1/4 inch deep, and keep seeds moist so they will germinate. Click here for complete Carrot grow guide Additional Details Carrot gets its characteristic and bright orange colour from β-carotene, which is metabolised into vitamin A in humans when bile salts are present in the intestines. Carrots are also rich in dietary fibre, antioxidants, and minerals. Follow SeedsNow.com's board Carrots on Pinterest.
Growing notes: Carrots are an annual cool-season crop, half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Sow seeds evenly in a very shallow furrow, about 1/4 inch deep, and keep seeds moist so they will germinate.
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Chantenay Red Core65–70 days
Heirloom; Container; Vegetable; Annual
65-70 days. Red Core Chantenay carrot Seeds. Daucus carota subsp. sativus. Non-GMO. Heirloom. The Chantenay Red Core carrot seeds produce blunt roots that can grow up to six inches long. The core of each carrot is a beautiful dark orange color, giving it a unique look when it is sliced. Carrots are sweet and tender, but have a nice crunch when they are eaten raw as well. This variety should be grown in full sun in zones three to nine, and does best in sandy or heavy soil. The Chantenay Red Core carrot is ready to be harvested at around sixty eight days. ~ 18,000 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Imperator 5865–80 days
Heirloom; AAS Winner; Vegetable; Annual
65-80 days. The Imperator 58 carrot is a colorful and crunchy addition to any home garden. Seeds produce nine inch long tapered roots with a bright orange color. Their tops are green and fluffy, growing up to eight inches tall. This crop requires sandy, well-drained soil with no rocks, in an area with full sun. Carrots take sixty five to eighty days to reach full maturity. The variety is sweet and tender, and is commonly found being sold in supermarkets.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Kuroda Long 8"65–75 days
Heirloom; Vegetable
The Kuroda Long 8" carrot is a sweet Asian carrot. It is tolerable to multiple climates, and grows best with some shade. Seeds should be planted in fertile loose soil.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Rainbow Blend65–75 days
Heirloom; Container; Vegetable
65-75 days. The Rainbow Blend Carrot is an excellent way to get lots of colors in the garden all at once! This kaleidoscope of carrots is a colorful mixture of five varieties of baby carrots. It includes Atomic Red, Bambino Orange, Cosmic Purple, Lunar White and Solar Yellow to create perfect bunches of baby carrots. It is great for all specialty and farmers markets. The Rainbow Blend carrot seeds produce thick, seven inch roots. It thrives with full sun in zones three to eleven. The Rainbow Blend carrots are sweet and tender, and work well for juicing. The roots can be harvested in around seventy days.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Rainbow Blend (Organic)65–75 days
Heirloom; Organic; Vegetable
65-75 days. The Rainbow Blend Carrot is an excellent way to get lots of colors in the garden all at once! This kaleidoscope of carrots is a colorful mixture of five varieties of baby carrots. It includes Atomic Red, Bambino Orange, Cosmic Purple, Lunar White and Solar Yellow to create perfect bunches of baby carrots. It is great for all specialty and farmers markets. The Rainbow Blend carrot seeds produce thick, seven inch roots. It thrives with full sun in zones three to eleven. The Rainbow Blend carrots are sweet and tender, and work well for juicing. The roots can be harvested in around seventy days.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Royal Chantenay65–70 days
Heirloom; Container; Vegetable
65-70 days. Royal Chantenay Carrot Seeds. Daucus carota subsp. sativus. Non-GMO. Heirloom. From the Chantenay region of France, Chantenay is an old-world favorite grown for denser, stubbier roots. A 19th century heirloom, Royal Chantenay carrot seeds had been first commercially sold in 1952 by the pioneering seed merchant Northrup King and Company as a delicious, modern cross with the exceedingly dense and prolific Red Cored Chantenay. ~18,000 seeds/oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Caravel F168–92 days
Main season; Fast-growing; 7-8” Nantes-type
Fast-growing, cylindrical roots with blunt tips and sweet flavor. Strong, healthy tops make this an excellent variety for bunching in the field. Can also be grown for large, topped wholesale carrots. Roots are smooth and clean, making for efficient processing and excellent visual appeal.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Carrots are hardy biennials that do best in fertile, sandy loam. For more compact soils, choose tapered carrots like Chantenays or Danvers types that can wedge their way into soils. Prepare raised beds by loosening soil and raking smooth. Direct seed as soon as soil can be worked in the spring. Seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge and may require thinning to 1” apart. Ensure constant moisture during germination. Plant every three weeks for a continual harvest. Carrots hold well in the field for up to three weeks in the summer and longer in cool conditions. Some varieties may be overwintered outdoors or in a high tunnel for an early spring harvest. For storage carrots, dig roots after frost but before ground freezes.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Negovia F168–92 days
Bunching or storage; 7-8” Nantes-type
Resistance: IR: Alternaria Leaf Blight; Black Rot; Cercospora Leaf Blight; Liquorice Rot; Powdery Mildew
A standout in our summer carrot trials for both sweetness and texture. Smooth, cylindrical roots with impressive flavor and stronger tops than Yaya F1, plus great storage quality. Excellent uniformity makes this a good variety for bunching and mechanical harvest; compares well to Bolero F1 with similar sweetness and crunch.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Carrots are hardy biennials that do best in fertile, sandy loam. For more compact soils, choose tapered carrots like Chantenays or Danvers types that can wedge their way into soils. Prepare raised beds by loosening soil and raking smooth. Direct seed as soon as soil can be worked in the spring. Seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge and may require thinning to 1” apart. Ensure constant moisture during germination. Plant every three weeks for a continual harvest. Carrots hold well in the field for up to three weeks in the summer and longer in cool conditions. Some varieties may be overwintered outdoors or in a high tunnel for an early spring harvest. For storage carrots, dig roots after frost but before ground freezes.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Purple68–92 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Super easy to grow
Purple carrot (Daucus carota var. sativus) produces violet roots whose color comes from anthocyanin pigments. Sow directly into loose, stone-free soil and keep the surface damp until germination. Thin seedlings early so the roots can develop without crowding.
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Kyoto Red70–90 days
Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual
70 to 90 Days to maturity. Daucus carota. Kyoto Red - Carrot Seeds. Cool Season Annual, Heirloom. Kyoto Red carrot is a Japanese traditional heirloom vegetable, dento yasai, grown in the Kyoto area. This is a Japanese kintoki-type (sweet red) carrot. Deep red color develops when about 3” long. Its glossy, deep scarlet roots grow beautifully tapered carrots 10-12” long that are notably tender and sweet. Delicious to use as carrot juice. ~ 25,000 seeds per oz.
View on True Leaf Market ↗▸Lunar White70–75 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Super easy to grow
The Lunar White Carrot (Daucus carota) is a creamy-white carrot with a small core and mild, sweet flavor that grows 8"-12" long. Harvest sooner for smaller carrots. Half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Good steamed, roasted, and fresh. Sweet, mild flavor Size: 8"-12" long Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days Days to maturity: 70-75 Can be harvested sooner for mini carrots Good companion plants: Broccoli, Cauliflower, Chives, Lettuce, Onion, Parsley, Peas, Rosemary, Sage, Thyme, Tomato
Growing notes: Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep|Spacing between plants: 2" apart|Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart|Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days|Germination soil temps: 65F-85F|Soil needs: 6.0-6.8 pH|Sun needs: Full sun|Hardiness: Half-hardy to frost and light freezes|Planting season: Spring, fall|# of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 16 plants per sq. ft|Days to maturity: 70-75 days
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Purple Haze70–75 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Super easy to grow
The Purple Haze Carrot (Daucus carota) is dark purple on the outside and bright orange on the inside. Fun when sliced into coins. Grows 6"-8" with tapered roots, good texture, and sweet flavor. Half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Good steamed, roasted, and fresh. F1 hybrid Sweet and crunchy Size: 6"-8" long Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days Days to maturity: 70-75 Can be harvested sooner for mini sized carrots Good companion plants: Broccoli, Cauliflower, Chives, Lettuce, Onion, Parsley, Peas, Rosemary, Sage, Thyme, Tomato
Growing notes: Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep|Spacing between plants: 2" apart|Spacing between rows:|Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days|Germination soil temps: 65F-85F|Soil needs: 6.0-6.8 pH|Sun needs: Full sun|Hardiness: Half-hardy to frost and light freezes|Planting season: Spring, fall|# of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 16 plants per sq. ft|Days to maturity: 70-75 days
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Snow White70–75 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Super easy to grow
The Snow White Carrot (Daucus carota) is a creamy white carrot with a crispy crunch and mild, sweet flavor. Grows 7" long with a tapered root. Harvest sooner for small carrots. Half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Good steamed, roasted, and fresh. Sweet and crunchy Size: 7" long Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days Days to maturity: 70-75 Good companion plants: Broccoli, Cauliflower, Chives, Lettuce, Onion, Parsley, Peas, Rosemary, Sage, Thyme, Tomato
Growing notes: Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep|Spacing between plants: 2" apart|Spacing between rows:|Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days|Germination soil temps: 65F-85F|Soil needs: 6.0-6.8 pH|Sun needs: Full sun|Hardiness: Half-hardy to frost and light freezes|Planting season: Spring, fall|# of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 16 plants per sq. ft|Days to maturity: 70-75 days
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Dragon72–98 days
Specialty appeal; 7” Danvers-type
Vibrant purple skin with bright orange flesh and unusual yellow core. Adored by carrot aficionados for its yellow core and spicy yet sweet flavor. Roots are full size at 7” long, thrive in heavy soils and are very hardy. Improved from a USDA specimen by Dr. John Navazio, with lycopene content equal to tomatoes.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Carrots are hardy biennials that do best in fertile, sandy loam. For more compact soils, choose tapered carrots like Chantenays or Danvers types that can wedge their way into soils. Prepare raised beds by loosening soil and raking smooth. Direct seed as soon as soil can be worked in the spring. Seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge and may require thinning to 1” apart. Ensure constant moisture during germination. Plant every three weeks for a continual harvest. Carrots hold well in the field for up to three weeks in the summer and longer in cool conditions. Some varieties may be overwintered outdoors or in a high tunnel for an early spring harvest. For storage carrots, dig roots after frost but before ground freezes.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Solar Yellow75–80 days
Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Super easy to grow
The Solar Yellow Carrot (Daucus carota) is a sunny yellow carrot with a crispy crunch and a flavor slightly sweeter than the orange ones. Grows 7" long with a tapered root. Harvest sooner for small carrots. Half-hardy to frost and light freezes. Sweet and crunchy Size: 7" long Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days Days to maturity: 75-80 Good companion plants: Broccoli, Cauliflower, Chives, Lettuce, Onion, Parsley, Peas, Rosemary, Sage, Thyme, Tomato
Growing notes: Depth to plant seeds: .25" deep|Spacing between plants: 2" apart|Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart|Days to germinate (sprout): 7-21 days|Germination soil temps: 65F-85F|Soil needs: 6.0-6.8 pH|Sun needs: Full sun|Hardiness: Half-hardy to frost and light freezes|Planting season: Spring, fall|# of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 16 plants per sq. ft|Days to maturity: 70-75 days
View on Seeds Now ↗▸Bangor F176–104 days
Juicing & storage; 7-9” Nantes/Berlicum-type
Resistance: IR: Alternaria Leaf Blight; Black Rot; Liquorice Rot
Large, crunchy cylindrical roots ideal for juicing. The perfect juicing carrot. High yields of hefty, juicy bright orange roots with blunt tips. A main season jumbo type that resists greening and splitting; ideal for commercial growers in need of a high-yielding, long-storing variety. Develops best flavor with a little time in storage. From our partners at Bejo Seeds.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Carrots are hardy biennials that do best in fertile, sandy loam. For more compact soils, choose tapered carrots like Chantenays or Danvers types that can wedge their way into soils. Prepare raised beds by loosening soil and raking smooth. Direct seed as soon as soil can be worked in the spring. Seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge and may require thinning to 1” apart. Ensure constant moisture during germination. Plant every three weeks for a continual harvest. Carrots hold well in the field for up to three weeks in the summer and longer in cool conditions. Some varieties may be overwintered outdoors or in a high tunnel for an early spring harvest. For storage carrots, dig roots after frost but before ground freezes.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Carnelian81–109 days
Uniform root shape; Summer and fall production; Specialty appeal; 6-7” roots
Beautiful salmon pink roots with a gorgeous contrasting core ranging from pink to yellow. Roots are sensationally beautiful with slender taper and smooth skin. The texture is firm, perfect for roasting, turning a dark red color. Can be grown on its own as a specialty carrot or mixed into bunches with other carrot colors. This carrot comes to us as a first release from the Organic Seed Alliance’s Carrot Improvement for Organic Agriculture Project. Not recommended for spring production as red carrots are environmentally sensitive and susceptible to bolting. A portion of sales is paid to the breeder. Limited availability in 2024
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Carrots are hardy biennials that do best in fertile, sandy loam. For more compact soils, choose tapered carrots like Chantenays or Danvers types that can wedge their way into soils. Prepare raised beds by loosening soil and raking smooth. Direct seed as soon as soil can be worked in the spring. Seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge and may require thinning to 1” apart. Ensure constant moisture during germination. Plant every three weeks for a continual harvest. Carrots hold well in the field for up to three weeks in the summer and longer in cool conditions. Some varieties may be overwintered outdoors or in a high tunnel for an early spring harvest. For storage carrots, dig roots after frost but before ground freezes.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Lila Lu81–109 days
Specialty appeal; Purple when peeled; Exceptional taste; 6-8" roots
Strikingly beautiful, purple carrots with dark purple skin and cheerful, orange cores. The beauty of these long, pointy carrots is complemented by excellent texture and taste. Roots are sweet and mild without the peppery flavor often found in purple carrots. Uniform shape with good top health for fresh market bunching. The purple skin coloration runs deep into the root, making for a fully purple, peeled carrot. From our partners at Sativa Seeds.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Carrots are hardy biennials that do best in fertile, sandy loam. For more compact soils, choose tapered carrots like Chantenays or Danvers types that can wedge their way into soils. Prepare raised beds by loosening soil and raking smooth. Direct seed as soon as soil can be worked in the spring. Seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge and may require thinning to 1” apart. Ensure constant moisture during germination. Plant every three weeks for a continual harvest. Carrots hold well in the field for up to three weeks in the summer and longer in cool conditions. Some varieties may be overwintered outdoors or in a high tunnel for an early spring harvest. For storage carrots, dig roots after frost but before ground freezes.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Bengala F185–115 days
Long storage; 7-9” Nantes-type
Resistance: IR: Alternaria Leaf Blight
Beautiful and uniform roots with delicious flavor and strong attachment to long, sturdy stems. Excellent main season carrot with erect, vigorous foliage and good field holding quality. Exceptional storage makes it a great candidate for winter sales. Cylindrical roots have smooth skin and a medium core. Excellent flavor raw or cooked.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Carrots are hardy biennials that do best in fertile, sandy loam. For more compact soils, choose tapered carrots like Chantenays or Danvers types that can wedge their way into soils. Prepare raised beds by loosening soil and raking smooth. Direct seed as soon as soil can be worked in the spring. Seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge and may require thinning to 1” apart. Ensure constant moisture during germination. Plant every three weeks for a continual harvest. Carrots hold well in the field for up to three weeks in the summer and longer in cool conditions. Some varieties may be overwintered outdoors or in a high tunnel for an early spring harvest. For storage carrots, dig roots after frost but before ground freezes.
View on High Mowing ↗▸Dolciva95–115 days
Long storing; High Brix; 8” Nantes-type
Exceptional storage carrot developing sweetness and maintaining quality deep into the storage season. Great sweet flavor, juicy crunch and strong field resistance to Alternaria. We are delighted with this Swiss-bred variety. Slightly tapered roots have good uniformity, bright color and strong tops. Widely adapted; rated 20-30% higher in sugars than Bolero F1 over 9 months in storage. From our friends at Swiss biodynamic seed company, Sativa Seeds. Available as raw or pelleted seed.
Growing notes: Days to maturity are from direct seeding. Carrots are hardy biennials that do best in fertile, sandy loam. For more compact soils, choose tapered carrots like Chantenays or Danvers types that can wedge their way into soils. Prepare raised beds by loosening soil and raking smooth. Direct seed as soon as soil can be worked in the spring. Seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge and may require thinning to 1” apart. Ensure constant moisture during germination. Plant every three weeks for a continual harvest. Carrots hold well in the field for up to three weeks in the summer and longer in cool conditions. Some varieties may be overwintered outdoors or in a high tunnel for an early spring harvest. For storage carrots, dig roots after frost but before ground freezes.
View on High Mowing ↗
Plant spacing
In a square-foot bed, space carrot about 3 in apart — that fits 16 plants in each 1-foot square (4×4). Wider rows or containers space the same.
Plan your carrot planting
Add carrot to a free GardenDraft plan and get sow, transplant, and harvest dates computed for your ZIP code — with a drag-and-drop bed layout and reminders when it’s time to plant.
Start your free plan →At a glance
Storing & preserving
Stores well in the right conditions. Trim tops and refrigerate, or store in damp sand in a cool spot for months.
- Freeze: Blanch briefly, cool, then freeze — keeps color and texture.
- Pickle: Quick-pickle or can as a pickled product.
General home-preservation guidance — for tested processing times and safety, follow the National Center for Home Food Preservation.
Growing timeline
Companion planting — with cited sources
From US/Canada cooperative-extension publications and peer-reviewed studies. Evidence-tier dots show how strongly each recommendation is backed: ●●● peer-reviewed mechanism · ●● extension consensus · ● traditional knowledge with a plausible mechanism.
Pairs well with (16)
- Black WalnutEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsjuglone-tolerant
Carrot is juglone-tolerant; listed as 'safe under walnut' in extension tables.
Source: Penn State Extension, S8
- Bunching OnionEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionspest-deter
Bunching onion (scallion) emits the same masking sulfur volatiles as bulb onion and is the most commonly recommended allium for season-long carrot interplant in extension guides — it does not compete with the carrot for bed space and matures on a similar timeline.
Source: S1, S4, University of Guelph / OMAFRA
- Common ChivesEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionspest-deter, pollinator-attract
Chive foliage masks carrot rust fly oviposition cues; flowering chives also draw syrphids whose larvae predate carrot aphid colonies.
Source: S1, S13, University of Guelph / OMAFRA
- Common LeekEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionspest-deter
Same allium-volatile masking mechanism as onion; leek's long growing window pairs well with main-season carrots.
Source: S1, University of Guelph / OMAFRA
- Common OnionEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionspest-deter
Alliums emit sulfur-containing volatiles (allyl sulfides) that interfere with host-finding by carrot rust fly (Psila rosae), the principal carrot pest in cool-temperate North America. Multiple US/Canada extension sources recommend perimeter or alternating-row onion/carrot intercropping; the relationship is bidirectional — carrot foliage volatiles disrupt onion fly (Delia antiqua) by similar olfactory masking.
Region: Effect strongest in maritime / cool-summer regions where carrot rust fly pressure is highest (Pacific Northwest, Great Lakes, Maritimes, New England).
Source: S1, UC IPM, S4, University of Guelph / OMAFRA
- Common ShallotEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionspest-deter
Shallots share Allium cepa volatile chemistry and provide the same masking effect against carrot rust fly. Extension companion guides treat shallots as functionally equivalent to onions for interplanting with carrots.
Source: S1, University of Guelph / OMAFRA
- Cultivated GarlicEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionspest-deter
Fall-planted garlic provides allium-volatile cover during the spring carrot rust fly flight period (May-June in much of the northeast US and Canada).
Timing: Match the fall-garlic schedule with spring carrot seeding so garlic canopy is present during the first fly generation.
Source: S1, Penn State Extension, University of Guelph / OMAFRA
- Garden PeaEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionssoil-conditioning
Pea and carrot are commonly intercropped: pea roots occupy a different soil layer than carrot, reducing direct competition. NOTE: legumes do not transfer meaningful nitrogen to neighbors in-season (N is released only after residue breakdown); the benefit here is spatial complementarity, not N feeding.
Timing: Co-sow in early spring; pea's earlier finish leaves carrot to mature into mid-summer.
Region: Cool-season window in most US/Canada climates.
Source: S7, University of Maryland Extension
- Common LettuceEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationshade-shelter
Lettuce is commonly interplanted between carrot rows in extension home-garden references; the lettuce harvests out before carrots size up, and provides modest weed suppression and soil cover during the slow carrot germination phase.
Source: University of Maryland Extension, S13
- Common RadishEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationshade-shelter, weed-suppression
Radish is widely recommended by extension home-garden references as a row-marker and bed-cover crop for slow-germinating carrots: fast radish germination breaks crust, suppresses weeds, and harvests in 25-30 days before carrots size up. Mechanism is physical / cultural rather than chemical.
Timing: Co-sow radish with carrot; harvest radish within 30 days so it does not compete with thickening carrot roots.
Source: S1, University of Maryland Extension, S13
- Common RosemaryEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationpest-deter
Rosemary is recommended near carrots as a putative masking herb against carrot rust fly; evidence is stronger for alliums but the volatile rationale is plausible.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
- Common SageEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationpest-deter
Sage volatiles plausibly mask carrot from carrot rust fly (Psila rosae); extension home-garden guides recommend the pairing, though direct evidence is more compelling for alliums than for sage.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
- Common TomatoEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationflavor-folklore
Carrot / tomato is a long-standing folk pairing without a clearly replicated mechanism. The crops have non-overlapping rooting depths and tomato canopy can provide light shade during midsummer heat. Tier C with flavor-folklore tag.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
- Egyptian Walking OnionEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationpest-deter
Walking onion is a perennial allium hybrid (A. cepa × A. fistulosum) that shares the masking sulfur volatiles of its parents; it can serve as a permanent allium row alongside annual carrots for carrot rust fly suppression. Documented in extension home-garden and permaculture references rather than replicated trials.
Source: University of Maryland Extension, S13
- EndiveEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationshade-shelter
Endive's broad rosette shades the soil and helps carrot germination in warm-spring conditions; spatial benefit only.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
- Garlic ChivesEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationpest-deter, pollinator-attract
Garlic chives share the sulfur-volatile chemistry of common chives and are recommended by extension home-garden references as a perennial substitute for carrot rust fly masking. Late-summer white umbel flowers also attract syrphids and small parasitic wasps.
Source: University of Maryland Extension, S13
Avoid planting near (16)
- Cereal RyeEvidence tier A: Peer-reviewed studies in US/Canada production conditions with a clear mechanismallelopathy-negative
Direct-seeded carrot stands are severely reduced when sown into freshly terminated cereal rye residue due to benzoxazinoid leaching. Effect is well documented in Northeast Cover Crop Council trials.
Timing: Wait 3-4 weeks after termination, or do not follow rye with carrot.
Source: S29, Putnam, 1988
- Sorghum-SudangrassEvidence tier A: Peer-reviewed studies in US/Canada production conditions with a clear mechanismallelopathy-negative
Direct-seeded carrot suffers severe stand reduction following sorghum-sudangrass; sorgoleone inhibits germination at very low concentrations.
Timing: Avoid carrot immediately after sorghum-sudangrass, or wait 6+ weeks.
Source: S29, Putnam, 1988
- AniseEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationalternate-host-pest
Apiaceae cross-host: shares carrot rust fly and aphids with carrot. Standard extension advice to keep Apiaceae herbs out of carrot beds.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
- CarawayEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationalternate-host-pest
Apiaceae cross-host: shares carrot rust fly and Alternaria with carrot. Extension references recommend not planting Apiaceae herbs next to carrots or rotating them on the same ground.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
- CeleriacEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationalternate-host-pest
Apiaceae cross-host: shares carrot rust fly and Alternaria with carrot. Same avoidance rationale as for stalk celery.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
- CilantroEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationalternate-host-pest
Apiaceae cross-host: shares carrot rust fly and Alternaria with carrot. Extension references advise separating cilantro and carrot beds and not rotating one into the other within 3 years.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
- Common CeleryEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationalternate-host-pest
Both Apiaceae; share carrot rust fly, aphids, and Alternaria / Cercospora leaf blights. Extension references recommend separating celery and carrot beds and not rotating one into the other within 3 years.
Source: University of Maryland Extension, S13
- Common ParsleyEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationalternate-host-pest
Apiaceae cross-host: parsley shares carrot rust fly, aphids, and Alternaria with carrot. Extension references advise separating the two.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
- DillEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationalternate-host-pest, disease-host
Both Apiaceae; share parsleyworm (Papilio polyxenes), aphids, and Alternaria / Cercospora leaf blights. Bolting dill is also reported to suppress carrot germination and growth by allelopathy. Extension references recommend separating the two.
Source: University of Maryland Extension, S13
- Florence FennelEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationallelopathy-negative, alternate-host-pest
Same fennel allelopathy and Apiaceae cross-host concerns as sweet fennel.
Source: S4, University of Maryland Extension
- Hairy VetchEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationdisease-host, alternate-host-pest
Hairy vetch can host root-lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus penetrans) that also damage carrot. Some Northeast extension notes recommend avoiding vetch immediately ahead of carrot in heavy-clay sites with known nematode pressure.
Region: Northeast, particularly NY and ON muck soils.
- Hamburg ParsleyEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationalternate-host-pest
Apiaceae cross-host; see common parsley.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
- Italian ParsleyEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationalternate-host-pest
Apiaceae cross-host; see common parsley.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
- LovageEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationalternate-host-pest
Apiaceae cross-host; same rationale as dill / carrot. Lovage's perennial nature makes it a year-round inoculum source for carrot diseases if planted nearby.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
- ParsnipEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationalternate-host-pest, disease-host
Both root Apiaceae sharing carrot rust fly, aphids, and root-rot fungi; extension references advise not planting them in the same bed and rotating them on separate ground.
Source: University of Maryland Extension
- Sweet FennelEvidence tier C: Traditional practice with plausible mechanism but limited empirical replicationallelopathy-negative, alternate-host-pest
Fennel exudes anethole and related compounds with documented allelopathic suppression of many neighboring vegetables, including carrot germination. Both crops also share Apiaceae pests and diseases. Extension references consistently flag fennel as a poor neighbor for the entire vegetable bed, not just carrots.
Source: S4, University of Maryland Extension
Good successors in rotation (1)
- PhaceliaEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionssoil-conditioning, weed-suppression
Phacelia is non-allelopathic and is in a botanical family (Hydrophyllaceae) unrelated to most vegetable crops, making it a 'safe' rotation break between unrelated cash crops. NRCS recommends as a 'gap-filler' cover.
Sources cited
- S1
- Cornell University Cooperative Extension — vegetable production guides
- S13
- University of New Hampshire Extension
- S19
- USDA NRCS Plants Database / NRCS Plant Guides
- S23
- University of Guelph / OMAFRA (Ontario)
- S29
- Cornell Soil Health Lab / Northeast Cover Crop Council (NECCC)
- S3
- UC IPM (University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources)
- S33
- Putnam, 1988 — cereal rye allelopathy review
- S4
- Oregon State University Extension Service
- S6
- Penn State Extension
- S7
- University of Minnesota Extension
- S8
- Iowa State University Extension and Outreach
- S9
- University of Maryland Extension — Home & Garden Info Center
Care & troubleshooting— extension-sourced, with citations
When to feed, prune & water
Attract beneficial insects and protect pollinators
Protection- Routine carePlant insectary flowers and tolerate light pestsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Grow a diversity of flowering plants (including small-flowered umbels and asters) to feed predators and parasitoids, and tolerate low pest numbers so natural enemies have prey to stick around.
- Routine careNever spray open bloomsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Avoid insecticides on flowering plants and apply any needed sprays in the evening when pollinators aren't active, and favor selective products over broad-spectrum ones to spare bees and beneficials.
Mulch to suppress weeds and retain moisture
Mulch- Routine careApply organic mulch around plantsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Spread a few inches of straw, shredded leaves, or compost around established plants (keeping it off stems) to hold soil moisture, suppress weeds, and moderate soil temperature; wait until soil has warmed for heat-loving crops.
Plan crop rotation
Rotation- Routine careRotate plant families between bedsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Avoid planting the same family in the same bed in consecutive years (aim for a 3+ year gap), grouping crops by family so soilborne diseases and pests that build up don't carry over to the next susceptible crop.
- Routine careSequence for soil healthmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Follow heavy feeders like tomatoes and brassicas with legumes or a cover crop to support soil fertility and structure, and keep simple notes each year so you can track where each family grew.
Protect the garden from rabbits and voles
Protection- Routine careFence out rabbitsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Surround beds with 1-inch mesh chicken wire at least 2 feet tall with the bottom buried or staked down a few inches so rabbits can't push under it.
- Routine careReduce vole habitat and guard stemsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Keep grass and mulch pulled back from plant bases and crowns to remove vole cover, mow surrounding vegetation, and use hardware-cloth guards around vulnerable woody stems before winter.
Thin crowded seedlings to final spacing
Thinning- Routine careThin to ~2 in spacing, then again later· every 3 wks · ~3 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence
Crowded carrots stay small and forked. Thin to about 1 in when seedlings are 2-3 in tall, then to 2-3 in a few weeks later. Snip rather than pull to avoid disturbing neighbors.
Clean up debris and sanitize at season end
SanitationUnusual this time of year.
- Routine careRemove spent plants and fallen debrisstrong evidence — extension confidence
Pull and clear old plants, dropped fruit, and leaf litter at season end, since many pests and diseases overwinter in this debris; dispose of diseased material rather than composting it.
- Routine careClean tools, stakes, and cagesmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Wash and sanitize stakes, cages, and tools that touched diseased plants before storing or reusing them to avoid carrying pathogens into next season.
Keep carrot seedbeds evenly moist
WateringUnusual this time of year.
- Routine careWater lightly and prevent crusting· every 1 days · ~3 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence
Carrot seed is tiny and slow to sprout, so keep the surface consistently moist with light daily watering and never let it dry into a hard crust that seedlings cannot push through. A thin row cover or light mulch helps hold moisture until they emerge.
Something looks wrong?
Describe what you see on your carrotand we'll rank the likely causes — most likely first, least-invasive fix first.
Bacterial soft rot
Diseasesevere- CulturalRemove rotting plants and produce (manage, not cure)strong evidence — extension confidence
Soft rot can't be cured once tissue breaks down; promptly remove and discard affected plants and produce so the bacteria don't spread to neighbors or other stored vegetables.
- CulturalAvoid wounds and excess moisturestrong evidence — extension confidence
Harvest in dry conditions, handle gently to avoid bruising, control insects that create entry wounds, and improve drainage; cure and store bulbs and roots cool and dry.
- CulturalDon't overwater and rotatemoderate evidence — extension confidence
Avoid waterlogged soil and overhead watering that splashes bacteria, and rotate away from previously affected fleshy crops to lower disease pressure.
Root-knot nematodes
Nematodesevere- CulturalConfirm with a soil test, then rotate (manage, not cure)strong evidence — extension confidence
Root-knot nematodes can't be eradicated from garden soil, so confirm via a county Extension nematode assay and rotate beds to non-hosts or resistant varieties (look for VFN-type resistance in tomato).
- CulturalPlant suppressive cover/rotation cropsmoderate evidence — extension confidence
A solid planting of French marigolds grown 2+ months and turned under, or cover crops such as sorghum-sudangrass or cowpea, can lower populations between susceptible crops.
- CulturalSanitation and organic mattermoderate evidence — extension confidence
Avoid moving infested soil on tools or transplants, build soil organic matter to support beneficial organisms, and keep plants well watered to help them tolerate root damage.
Southern blight
Diseasesevere- CulturalRemove infected plants and surrounding soil (manage, not cure)strong evidence — extension confidence
Once a plant collapses it can't be cured; dig out the plant plus the top few inches of nearby soil containing sclerotia and dispose of it, avoiding spread on tools.
- CulturalBury residue and rotatemoderate evidence — extension confidence
Deep-turn soil to bury sclerotia, remove crop debris at season end, and rotate susceptible solanaceous and legume crops with grasses for several seasons.
- CulturalAdjust soil pH and plant earlymoderate evidence — extension confidence
Maintain soil pH at the level recommended for the crop, since the disease is worse in low-pH soils, and time plantings so harvest begins before peak summer heat favors the fungus.
White mold (Sclerotinia stem rot)
Diseasesevere- CulturalRemove infected plants (manage, not cure)strong evidence — extension confidence
There's no cure for an infected plant; cut out and bag affected plants including the black sclerotia, and don't compost them, since sclerotia survive years in soil.
- CulturalOpen the canopy and rotatestrong evidence — extension confidence
Space plants widely, control weeds, orient rows to prevailing wind, and avoid overhead watering at bloom to dry the canopy; rotate to non-host crops (corn or other grasses) for several years.
- CulturalWater at the base, not overheadmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Use drip or soaker irrigation to keep foliage and the soil surface drier, which discourages the sclerotia germination and mycelial growth that drive white mold.
Carrot leaf blight
Diseasemoderate- CulturalRotate, use clean seed, and water at the basestrong evidence — extension confidence
Both Alternaria and Cercospora blights overwinter on debris and seed, so rotate away from carrots, use disease-free or treated seed, and avoid wetting foliage by watering at the base. Clear and discard old carrot tops at season's end.
- ChemicalApply a fungicide if spreading fast· every 10 daysmoderate evidence — extension confidence
If blight is advancing and the crop is still maturing, apply a labeled copper fungicide per the label, starting when spots first appear and weather stays wet.
Carrot rust fly
Pestmoderate- CulturalRow cover + delay sowingstrong evidence — extension confidence
Cover the bed with insect netting from sowing, and avoid the spring egg-laying peak by sowing a little later. Crop rotation helps.
Cavity Spot (Carrot)
Diseasemoderate- CulturalPlant on raised beds with good drainagestrong evidence — extension confidence
Grow carrots on raised beds in well-drained soil and avoid overhead irrigation and waterlogging, since these Pythium species thrive in wet soils.
- CulturalRotate and avoid history fieldsmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Rotate about 3 years to non-susceptible crops and avoid fields with a cavity-spot history; harvest promptly at maturity since lesions worsen the longer roots stay in wet soil.
Leafhoppers & aster yellows
Diseasemoderate- CulturalRemove infected plants and weed reservoirsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Aster yellows can't be cured, so pull and discard plants showing yellowing and witches-broom, and clear nearby weedy hosts that harbor the phytoplasma and its leafhoppers.
- CulturalExclude leafhoppers with row covermoderate evidence — extension confidence
On young susceptible crops, a floating row cover keeps egg-laying leafhoppers off and lowers the chance of aster-yellows spread.
Root rot from overwatering / poor drainage
Diseasemoderate- CulturalLet soil drain and water lessstrong evidence — extension confidence
Water root rots like Pythium thrive in saturated soil, so cut back watering, let the surface dry between irrigations, and water at the base rather than keeping soil constantly wet.
- CulturalImprove drainage and aerationstrong evidence — extension confidence
Use raised beds, loosen compacted soil, and add organic matter to improve drainage; remove plants that are already rotted since affected roots won't recover.
Tarnished plant bug / lygus
Pestmoderate- CulturalManage surrounding weedsstrong evidence — extension confidence
Keep broadleaf weeds mowed or removed around the garden, since lygus build up on flowering weeds and move to crops as those weeds dry down; avoid mowing large weedy areas right beside fruiting crops at bloom.
- CulturalVacuum or shake plants to monitor and reduce· every 5 daysmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Tap plants over a light-colored tray to check for nymphs; a handheld vacuum used once or twice weekly can hold low to moderate numbers down on small plantings.
- OrganicTreat nymphs if damage is building· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence
For active nymph infestations, azadirachtin or a Beauveria bassiana product can give some control per the label; preserve the parasitic wasps and other natural enemies that help suppress lygus.
Wireworms
PestmoderateUnusual this time of year.
- CulturalRotate away from grassy groundstrong evidence — extension confidence
Avoid planting susceptible crops right after sod, pasture, or grass cover, where wireworms build up; rotate to a less-favored crop and let infested beds dry out between plantings.
- CulturalBait-trap to monitor· every 5 days · ~3 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence
Bury pieces of carrot or potato or a handful of soaked wheat seed as bait when soil reaches about 50F, check after several days, and remove the worms you find to gauge and reduce pressure.
Aphids
Pestlow- CulturalBlast off with water· every 3 days · ~2 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence
Knock colonies off with a strong jet of water in the morning; repeat every few days. Light infestations rarely need more.
- OrganicInsecticidal soap - label use only· every 1 wk · ~3 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence
For persistent colonies apply insecticidal soap to undersides per label. Avoid open flowers.
Carrot forking and splitting
Disorderlow- CulturalLoosen soil and skip fresh manurestrong evidence — extension confidence
Forking comes from rocks, clods, compaction, fresh manure, or uneven moisture, so work the bed deep into a loose, stone-free tilth and use only well-rotted compost, never fresh manure. Keep watering even to prevent the splitting that follows dry-then-wet swings.
Green shoulders on carrots
Disorderlow- CulturalHill soil over exposed shouldersstrong evidence — extension confidence
Green shoulders form when sunlight reaches the root crown and triggers chlorophyll, so mound a little soil or mulch over any roots pushing up out of the bed. It is only cosmetic; trim off the green tops before eating if you prefer.