Carrot Plants

Carrot Plants FAQs

Take a look at some of the frequently asked questions we receive from those looking to buy Carrot Plants in the UK. You can  contact our Customer Service Team or browse our general FAQs for further advice.

When to plant Carrot Plants

The best time to plant carrot plants in the UK is in early spring, from March to April, as soon as the soil is workable and the risk of frost has passed. Carrots thrive in cooler temperatures, so planting early allows them to grow during the mild spring months. For a continuous harvest, you can also plant in late summer (August to September), as carrots can be harvested in the cooler months of autumn. Ensure the soil is loose, well-drained, and free of stones for optimal root development.

How to Plant Carrot Plants

To plant carrot plants, choose a sunny spot with well-drained, loose soil, as carrots need space to grow long roots. Prepare the soil by removing any stones or clumps and raking it to create a fine, crumbly texture, then enrich it with organic matter or compost. Sow the tiny carrot seeds directly into shallow rows about 1 cm deep and 2–3 cm apart. For a continuous crop, stagger plantings every few weeks. Once seedlings emerge, thin them to around 5–10 cm apart to give each plant room to grow. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and add a light layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Carrots are typically ready to harvest in 10 to 16 weeks, depending on the variety and growing conditions.

How long do Carrot Plants take to grow

Carrot plants typically take between 10 to 16 weeks to grow, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Early varieties can mature in around 10 to 12 weeks, while larger varieties may take 14 to 16 weeks. The carrots are usually ready for harvest once they have reached their full size, which can vary depending on the variety. Harvesting time can also be influenced by environmental factors such as temperature and soil quality.

Why Grow Carrot Plants?

Growing carrot plants is a rewarding way to enjoy fresh, flavourful carrots right from your garden. Carrots are nutritious, rich in vitamins like A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants that support eye health. They are easy to grow in a variety of garden types, including vegetable patches, raised beds, or even containers, making them perfect for gardeners with limited space. Carrot plants also offer the satisfaction of harvesting homegrown produce, which often tastes sweeter and crisper than store-bought varieties. With minimal care, carrots can thrive and provide a bountiful supply of fresh vegetables for your meals throughout the growing season.

Where can you grow Carrot Plants?

Carrot plants can be grown in a variety of locations, as long as they have sunny spots with well-drained, loose soil. They thrive in vegetable patches, raised beds, or containers, making them versatile for gardeners with different amounts of space. Carrots prefer soil free of rocks or clumps to allow their roots to grow straight and long, so choose a site with light, sandy or loamy soil. They can be grown in both small gardens and larger allotments, and are ideal for growing in cooler spring and autumn temperatures. Even in smaller spaces like patios or balconies, carrots can thrive in containers as long as they are deep enough for root development.

Why Buy Carrot Plants from Marshalls?

• Our customers are supported by a team of experts dedicated to providing valuable advice. You can also use our growing guides, backed by 70 years of experience, to get the best results from your Carrot Plants and other plants.
• You can contact us six days a week – including bank holidays – to discuss our products and services or to chat about all things gardening.
• We pride ourselves on offering fast delivery on all orders, with any 'in stock' plants and seeds sent out within three working days. We're green-fingered in more ways than one, too, thanks to our fully recyclable packaging.
• We won second place at the 2022 Great British Growing Awards for Best Online Retailer.
• Thousands of five-star reviews on Trustpilot and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all our products show that we're a company you can trust.