Field guide
How to grow carrots: planting, care, and harvest guide
Carrots typically reaches first harvest in 60–80 days. This guide covers when to plant by USDA zone, common pests, harvest cues, and companion plants where relevant.
Open plannerWhen to plant carrots by USDA zone group
- USDA Zones 1–4 — May to June
- USDA Zones 5–6 — April to May
- USDA Zones 7–8 — March to April
- USDA Zones 9–10 — February to March
- USDA Zones 11–13 — October to February
Companion plants
Good companions: Lettuce, Tomato (Slicing), Onions, Rosemary
Avoid planting with: Dill, Parsnips
Harvest
When to pick
- Tops of roots are visible at soil surface, about 3/4 inch diameter
- Foliage is full and dark green
- Gently brush soil away from top to check size
How: Loosen soil around the carrot with a fork, then pull gently by the base of the greens. Water the bed first to make pulling easier.
Storage: Remove greens (they draw moisture from roots). Store in a bag in the fridge for 3-4 weeks. Can overwinter in the ground with mulch in cold zones.
Common pests and problems
Carrot Rust Fly
Signs: Rusty-brown tunnels in roots, wilting tops
Control: Use floating row covers from sowing. Plant after mid-May when first generation has passed. Interplant with onions or leeks to mask scent.
Aphids
Signs: Clusters on foliage, stunted growth
Control: Insecticidal soap, attract ladybugs.
Wireworms
Signs: Small holes bored through roots
Control: Rotate crops. Set potato slice traps to attract and remove them. Avoid planting in freshly turned sod.
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