Soil & Climate Requirement for Carrot Production

Growing Conditions

• Cool weather, with temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, results in the plumpest roots with the best color, but carrots can survive temperatures between 32 to 80 degrees with only a minimal loss of quality. The plants are usually grown as a spring or fall crop, although they may grow through winter in mild climates. Carrots need six or more hours of daily sunlight. They also require consistently moist soil, so they won't grow well during extended dry periods unless they are watered frequently.

Site Selection

• The growing site cannot contain hard-packed soil, rocks or other debris that impede the development of long, straight roots. Carrots grow best when the soil pH is between 6.0 and 6.8. The soil must drain well so water from irrigation or rain doesn't pool on the surface or create soggy, waterlogged conditions. Loosening the soil and amending it properly helps solve both problems. If soil is rocky or poor draining, growing the carrots in a raised bed filled with quality soil can eliminate any problems.

Soil Preparation

• Compost incorporated into the soil before you plant improves drainage by breaking up harder soil. Spread 2 to 3 inches of compost over the bed and till it in to the top 12 inches to ensure loose soil throughout the root zone of the carrots. You can break up large clods and remove rocks during tilling. Applying 1 cup of 10-10-10 fertilizer to every 50 square feet of carrot bed at this time supplies the initial nutrients the carrots require for healthy foliage and root development.

Basic Care

• Carrots require minimal care once they are planted. Regular weekly watering that keeps the soil moist to a 6-inch depth usually provides enough moisture. Generally, a once weekly application of about 1 inch of water is sufficient. Spreading 2 inches of mulch over the bed once the carrots germinate and the leaves grow to a 3- to 4-inch height preserves the moisture in the soil and prevents weeds. Carrots also benefit from a second fertilizer application after they sprout. An application of ¼ cup of 21-0-0 fertilizer sprinkled along every 10-foot row, at least 6 inches from the plants, and watered in gives the soil the extra boost necessary for large root development.