Carrot Planting
Vegetable Farming in South Africa

Propagation

Propagation is by seed and carrots cannot be transplanted.
©Louise Brodie
Vegetables cultivated gardens.

Planting Method

Carrot seeds are sown directly in the field on ridges. Row planting is better than broadcast sowing. The seeding depth should be 25 mm to 40 mm in loose, light sands.

A planting depth should be shallower 10 to 15 mm on heavier soils and in colder months. Slightly deeper planting is recommended in summer when the soil dries out quickly. Sow in moist soil and keep soil moist.

Spacing

Plants should be spaced 20 cm apart in rows that are 40 to 50 cm apart. A density of 150 to 200 plants per m².

Sowing Time

Carrots can be sown most months of the year if the temperatures are correct for optimum growth. But a good norm is August to October and February to April.

Planting Time

Carrots cannot be transplanted.

Growth Period

100 to 120 days.

Fertilization

Fertiliser recommendations should be based on soil analyses. As a general guide, 150 kg/ha fertiliser mixture of 2:3:4 (24) should be worked into the top 20 cm of soil before planting.

Potassium should be applied at 4 then again at 8 weeks after planting. Limestone ammonium nitrate at a rate of 100 to 200 kg/ha should be applied as topdressing approximately 6 weeks after planting.

Irrigation

When seed is first planted ensure soil remains damp. This can require daily irrigation. In cooler climates irrigate 25 to 30 mm per week at regular intervals ensuring soil remains damp. In warmer temperatures the soil can require up to 50 mm per week of irrigation.By Louise Brodie