When to plant carrot 🥕
Carrot takes 60–80 days to mature, spaced 3" apart at 0.25" deep. Direct-sow only — does not transplant well.
Planting dates by USDA zone
| Zone | Direct sow | Harvest |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 3 | May 4 – June 22 | July 27 – August 17 |
| Zone 4 | April 24 – June 12 | July 17 – August 7 |
| Zone 5 | April 10 – May 29 | July 3 – July 24 |
| Zone 6 | March 25 – May 13 | June 17 – July 8 |
| Zone 7 | March 11 – April 29 | June 3 – June 24 |
| Zone 8 | February 23 – April 12 | May 17 – June 7 |
| Zone 9 | January 25 – March 14 | April 18 – May 9 |
| Zone 10 | January 9 – February 27 | April 2 – April 23 |
Dates are averages — adjust ±1–2 weeks for your microclimate. Need your exact dates? Enter your zip code below.
Get your personalized carrot planting dates
Care tips
- Thin seedlings to 2–3 in. for full roots.
- Keep top of soil moist until germination (10–14 days).
- Avoid fresh manure — it causes forking.
Good companions
Tomato, Onion, Lettuce.
Read more: Companion planting chart for vegetables
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Frequently asked questions
When should I plant carrot outdoors in zone 5?▾
In USDA zone 5, direct sow carrot between April 10 and May 29, relative to the average last spring frost on May 1.
When should I plant carrot outdoors in zone 6?▾
In USDA zone 6, direct sow carrot between March 25 and May 13, relative to the average last spring frost on April 15.
When should I plant carrot outdoors in zone 7?▾
In USDA zone 7, direct sow carrot between March 11 and April 29, relative to the average last spring frost on April 1.
When should I plant carrot outdoors in zone 8?▾
In USDA zone 8, direct sow carrot between February 23 and April 12, relative to the average last spring frost on March 15.
How long does carrot take to grow?▾
Carrot typically takes 60–80 days to mature, with harvest beginning roughly 9–12 weeks after the last spring frost.