Sowing of carrots

Where to sow?

Carrot prefers deep, rich, and light soils as well as a sunny exposure. The soil should be cleared of any stones to avoid forked roots. If your soil is heavy and compact, it is advisable to opt for demi-longue or globe varieties.

When to sow?

Sowing takes place directly in the ground from February to November, depending on the varieties and type of cultivation. Germination occurs at a minimum temperature of 7 °C. Each variety has an ideal sowing period: this information is indicated on the seed packet.

The outdoor sowing calendar, without protection, is as follows:

– in March-April (seasonal crop) for a harvest from July to September,

– in June-July (late-season crop) for a harvest from September to November.

Under unheated shelter (greenhouse, Nantes tunnel, or under cloches), sowing is done:

– in February-March (early crop) for a harvest in June-July,

– in October-November (late crop) for a harvest in spring.

How to sow?

Sowing is done in well-prepared soil. It must be weeded, deeply loosened, and then raked to achieve fine soil free of plant debris.

Sowing is carried out directly in the open and in rows:

– Trace flat furrows about ten centimetres wide and 1 to 2 cm deep, spaced 25 cm apart,

– Sow sparsely, possibly mixing the seeds with sand or dry coffee grounds,

– Cover with fine soil and then firm down with the back of the rake,

– Water gently, in a light spray, to avoid displacing the seeds. Keep the soil moist until germination.

After germination (which takes between 10 and 15 days), and when the young plants are well developed, thin out to keep one plant every 5 to 7 centimetres.

Associated with radish (sown simultaneously in the same row), carrot is easier to sow, as radishes quickly mark the row and, after harvest, leave space for the carrots.

If you are a beginner, consider seed tapes: they are incredibly simple, as the seeds, enclosed in biodegradable paper, are pre-spaced. These tapes sometimes contain several varieties, and carrot seeds are sometimes associated with radish seeds. To sow, simply bury it and water.