Soil Temperature for Growing Carrots

Season

• Plant the first carrot crop in early spring, just before last frost. Carrots last through light spring frosts and require cool, moist starts. The Ohio State University Extension warns that hot weather during carrot growth results in retarded form and strong flavor. The Clemson Cooperative Extension agrees, noting that carrot seeds won't germinate at temperatures higher than 95 degrees Fahrenheit.

Site

• Plant carrots in sites with quick drainage, as the root crops fail in standing water or thick, muddy soil. Choose sites with four to six hours of full sun. As cool-season crops, carrots require only partial sun for growth.

Soil

• Carrots do best in rich, crumbly and moist soil with soil and air temperatures of 55 to 75 F. The Ohio State University Extension suggests starting carrots when soil temperatures reach 50 to 55 F, but warns that extended periods of these temperatures lead to long, thin carrots. Amend the top 10 inches of soil with 5 inches of organic compost and add 5-10-10 or 8-16-16 granular fertilizer for nutrition.

Maintenance

• Sow carrot seeds every 2 to 3 inches in the row with 12 to 18 inches between multiple rows. Dusting the site with fine compost after planting keeps the soil from crusting or baking. Water the carrots with 2 inches of water every week and use at least 1 inch of organic mulch for soil warmth and moisture. The Clemson Cooperative Extension recommends ammonium nitrate or calcium nitrate fertilizer at midseason.