How Long Does It Take for Carrot Seeds to Sprout?

Carrots take a long time to germinate, and thus are often planted with radishes

A carrot seed holds an embryo that is dormant until conditions of soil, moisture and light are perfect. When the embryo begins to grow, it bursts the seed coat and reaches toward light. This process is called germination.

Temperature

Carrot seeds should be planted in soil that will maintain a temperature of between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The seeds will not germinate if they are planted in soil that reaches temperatures above 95 degrees Fahrenheit.

Moisture

Carrot seeds must absorb moisture before the germination process begins. The three-week germination time can be shortened slightly by soaking the seed in water before planting.

Planting Depth

The tiny carrot seed should be planted no deeper than 1/4 inch so that the sprout of the germinating seed quickly reaches the light it needs to continue to grow.

References

• Washington State University Extension: Seed Germination
• Texas Agricultural Extension Service: Easy Gardening - Carrots
• Clemson Cooperative Extension: Carrot, Beet & Radish