Germination of Carrot Seeds

The long roots of carrots grow best when direct seeded in the garden.

Carrots grow as cool-season vegetables in spring or fall. Planting the seeds in soil that is the right quality and temperature helps ensure that most of the seeds germinate and grow into harvestable vegetables. Carrots germinate quickly, usually sending out roots and sprouts within seven to 10 days of planting.

Direct Seeding

Carrots produce long taproots, which eventually develop into the edible root of the carrot. Germinating the seeds directly in the garden bed prevents damage to the root that can be caused by transplanting seedlings. Carrots also require some light to germinate well and continue healthy growth once they sprout. Providing the correct amount of light indoors is difficult unless you use fluorescent plant lighting. Start seeds directly in the garden bed to prevent root damage and ensure the plants receive enough light.

Soil Quality

The seeds germinate and grow best in well worked, sandy loam soils. Looser soil ensures the root grows straight and undamaged. Work the bed to a depth of 12 to 18 inches before sowing the seeds and remove any rocks or old roots buried in the garden so they don't inhibit carrot root formation. Rake the seed bed before sowing so that the surface is fine-textured, which provides the seeds with the best chance of successful germination and tap root formation.

Germination Temperature

Temperatures between between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit are optimum for carrot seed germination. Plant the seeds in early spring six weeks before the last expected frost date in your area to ensure the seeds are able to germinate and reach maturity before hot summer weather. Carrots can also be seeded in late summer or early fall for an early winter harvest.

Moisture Needs

Spread the seeds over the surface of the soil and cover them with a 1/8 inch layer of vermiculite. The vermiculite holds the seeds in place while allowing moisture and light to penetrate to the seeds for optimum germination. Vermiculite also doesn't harden like soil does as it dries after irrigation. Keep the soil bed moist but not soggy. Light watering every one to three days maintains moisture without washing away the small carrot seeds. Once the seeds sprout, thin them so they sit 2 inches apart in all directions and water them deeply every five to 10 days.

References

• University of Arkansas; Carrots; Craig R. Andersen
• Clemson Cooperative Extension; Carrot, Beet and Radish; Marjan Kluepfel, et al.; April 2003