Carrot - Daucus carota - is a biennial plant, which develops stout roots during the first year and flowers and seeds the second year. Carrots are consumed fresh as well as frozen or canned.

Environment

Climate: Carrots grow well during the cool season. Optimal temperature is 15-21^oC.    Warmer temperatures will produce thicker roots with less sugar, while cooler conditions will produce longer, more slender roots. Some varieties are better adapted to high temperatures.

Soil: Carrots will grow well on deep, loose, fertile, moderately acid (pH 5.5-6.5) soil. Carrots are sensitive to salt. Stones in the soil can cause forking or stunting of the roots.   

Planting layout

Carrots are seeded directly on raised beds. Plant density is about 120 plants per m2, but can change according to the required carrot size.

Water demand

Carrots are seeded directly and during the germination period the plants are very delicate. Soil surface has to be kept cool and moist for two weeks to allow for establishment of the seedlings.

After germination, water availability in the soil should be maintained to ensure constant growth of the roots. On the other hand, over wetting can increase the risk of root rot and foliar diseases. At full canopy, the carrot’s crop coefficient (Kc) is

1.0-1.1.

Irrigation

Sprinkler irrigation is the common method for watering carrots. Frequent sprinkling will enhance germination and full soil coverage will ensure even water distribution. However, young, germinating plants are fragile and therefore the impact of the sprinkler drops should be minimal to avoid damage. Growing carrots will have a crowded canopy that tends to develop diseases. Drip irrigation keeps the canopy dry and maintains optimal soil wetting.

Fertigation

Carrots accumulate considerable amounts of nutrients in the roots. Controlled fertigation is an effective practice, maintaining availability of soluble nutrients at the shallow depth of the carrots' roots.