Carrot
Daucus carota
Carrots are a versatile root vegetable prized for their crisp texture and sweet flavour. Available in various shapes and colours, including orange, yellow, and purple, they are commonly used in cooking, salads, and as a healthy snack. Learn how to grow carrots in the UK with this detailed guide.
Quick Information
Planting Calendar
Growing Guide for
1 Sow carrot seeds undercover
Start growing carrots by sowing seeds in trays or pots with light, fertile compost, 1-2 cm deep. Keep the soil moist and place in a warm spot to encourage germination.
2 Sow carrot seeds outdoors
Sow carrot seeds directly into well-prepared, stone-free soil, 1-2 cm deep. Space seeds 2.5 cm apart, thinning later to 10 cm between plants for healthy growth.
3 Thin carrot seedlings
Carefully thin carrot seedlings to achieve 10 cm spacing, removing weaker plants gently to avoid disturbing roots and minimise pest attraction.
4 Weed around carrots
Hand-weed around young carrots to prevent weed competition, taking care not to disturb developing carrot roots.
5 Harvest early carrots
Harvest early carrots when roots are finger-sized, using a fork to loosen compacted soil if necessary for easy lifting.
6 Harvest maincrop carrots
Lift maincrop carrots when roots are fully developed, typically after 10-11 weeks, using a fork if soil is dry or compacted.
Companion Planting Guide
Good Companions
Why Companion Planting Matters
Companion planting can help deter pests, improve pollination, enhance growth, and maximize garden space. Some plants release chemicals that repel pests or attract beneficial insects, while others can improve soil quality or provide shade for sensitive plants.
Explore More Plants
Tomato Fruit
Tomatoes are a warm-season favourite, prized for their juicy, flavourful fruits that elevate home cooking, fresh salads, and rich sauces. From tiny cherry tomatoes to huge beefsteaks, these versatile plants offer something for every gardener. Growing your own tomatoes gives the pleasure of harvesting sun-ripened, home-grown goodness straight from your garden, packed with taste you can’t find in the shops.
Chilli Pepper Fruit
Chilli peppers are the fiery fruits of the Capsicum family, known for their intense heat and use in various cuisines. They range in size, shape, and spiciness, adding a kick to dishes worldwide. They thrive in warm climates and require careful cultivation.
Sweet Pepper Fruit
Sweet peppers, also known as bell peppers, are a variety of Capsicum annuum prized for their large, mild-flavored fruits. They are used in a wide range of culinary applications, from salads and stir-fries to stuffed peppers and sauces. They require warm conditions and plenty of sunshine to thrive.