Carrots (Daucus carota subsp. sativus) are biennial vegetables that you can grow at home. They also offer various health benefits too as they improve eyesight and boost immunity. Not just the familiar orange roots, you can find carrots in various colours and shapes.
This article is a guide on how to grow carrot plants in your backyard. To enjoy freshly picked carrots’ delicious and nutritious taste, follow these tips for overcoming common challenges and ensuring a successful carrot crop.
See also: How to grow and care for banana tree?
Source: Pinterest (House Beautiful)
Carrot plant: Key facts
| Name | Daucus carota |
| Common names | Carrot |
| Family | Apiaceae or Umbelliferae |
| Origin | Europe, Southwestern Asia |
| Soil | Loose, well-drained soil |
| Temperature | About 55-75°F |
| Sunlight | Full sunlight per day |
| Colour | Red, Orange |
| Size | Six to 12-inch roots and one-foot foliage; nine-inch spread |
Carrot plant: Physical description
The carrot plant is a herbaceous plant belonging to the Apiaceae family. It features an erect, slender stem that reaches a height of about one-two foot. It also features feathery, finely divided leaves that grow in a rosette pattern close to the ground. The plant produces an edible taproot, the familiar orange carrot we consume. In contrast, the flowers are small and white, arranged in compound umbels that appear on long stalks above the foliage.
Carrot plant: How to grow?
Source: Pinterest (Rural Sprout)
Growing carrot plants at home is a relatively simple task. Here are some easy steps to help you get started:
Planting depth and spacing
Plant your carrot seeds about one centimetre (cm) deep in the soil. It encourages germination within two-three weeks. If you are planting in multiple rows, ensure each plant is at least 15 cm apart to give them enough space to grow. Once the leaves start appearing, thin the spacing to eight cm apart. However, if you prefer baby carrots, you can skip thinning.
Sunlight
Carrots thrive in sunlight. So, if you are growing them in pots indoors, ensure they get four to six hours of full sunlight daily. However, it is best to transfer the potted carrots to the garden once they are one to two weeks old for optimal growth.
Soil preparation
Preparing your soil by working in well-drained compost or vermicompost. Avoid large clods in the compost, as they cause misshapen roots. If your soil lacks phosphorus, add some bone meal before planting.
Mulching and weeding
Once your seeds turn into seedlings, apply a light layer of mulch around them. It helps keep moist and prevents weed growth. When weeding, be careful not to disturb the delicate carrot roots. Cut the tops of neighbouring weeds to avoid accidentally pulling your seedlings.
Attention and nutrients
While carrots do not need much attention, maintaining the soil’s pH at 6 and providing organic nutrients ensures they grow well and abundantly. Regular watering is essential to keep their oxygen levels balanced and prevent the growth of harmful fungus on the roots.
Carrot plant: Care tips
- Sunlight: Carrots need full sunlight, at least six hours a day.
- Soil: Well-draining sandy soil with no rocks to ensure straight root growth. Rotate carrot crops each year to prevent disease buildup.
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Thinning: Thin out seedlings to allow proper spacing for mature carrots.
- Mulching: Mulch around the plants to control weeds and retain moisture.
- Weeding: Regularly remove weeds to prevent competition for nutrients.
- Fertilising: Use a balanced fertiliser to promote healthy root development. Avoid over-fertilising, as it can cause forked or stunted roots.
- Pests: Watch for carrot flies; use row covers or companion planting.
- Harvest: Harvest when roots reach the desired colour and size, typically 1-1.5 inch in diameter.
- Storage: Store carrots in a cool, dark, humid place for extended freshness.
Carrot plant: Benefits
- Carrot plants are a good source of beta-carotene, converted to vitamin A in the body. It promotes healthy vision and immune function.
- Carrots are rich in dietary fibre, which aids in digestion. It also helps maintain bowel regularity.
- Regular consumption of carrots improves skin health and contributes to a youthful complexion.
- Carrots are a rich source of potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
- Chewing carrots stimulates saliva production. It aids in oral health by preventing tooth decay and promoting healthy gums.
- The natural compounds found in carrots may have anti-inflammatory properties, benefiting overall health.
Source: Pinterest (Amy Hayes)
Carrot plant: Toxicity
The carrot plant is generally safe and non-toxic to humans or animals. But, it contains alkaloids in its leaves and stems. It causes skin irritation or allergic reaction in some individuals. Additionally, the green foliage of the plant contains toxins called furanocoumarins. These compounds are present in small amounts and are generally harmless, but excessive consumption of carrot greens causes mild digestive discomfort in some cases.
FAQs
When should I plant carrot seeds?
Carrot seeds are usually sown in early spring or late summer, depending on the climate. It is best to plant them in colder regions in spring after the last frost date. Planting carrot seeds in late summer or early fall can be suitable in warmer regions.
How much time do carrots need to grow?
Generally, carrots take around 60 to 80 days from sowing to harvest. Some quick-maturing varieties can be harvested in as little as 50 days.
How do I care for carrot plants?
Carrot plants require consistent moisture to prevent them from becoming dry and woody. Water them regularly, especially during dry spells. Mulching helps retain moisture and control weed growth. Additionally, thinning the seedling to allow proper spacing promotes healthy root development.
Can I grow carrots in containers or pots?
Yes, carrots can be grown in containers or pots with enough depth for the roots to grow. Choose a container at least 12 inches (30 cm) deep to allow good root development. Use well-draining soil and ensure the container receives sufficient sunlight.
When is the best time to harvest carrots?
Carrots are ready for harvest when they have reached the desired size and colour. Usually, this is around two to three months after sowing. Carefully loosen the soil around the base of the carrots, grasp the green tops, and pull the carrot out of the ground.
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