Sunlight: Thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade, especially in warmer climates.

Soil Type: Prefers loose, sandy, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0. Remove rocks and debris to ensure straight root growth.

When to Plant: Sow seeds directly outdoors in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. Carrots thrive in cool weather.

Direct Sowing: Plant seeds 1/4–1/2 inch deep, spacing them 1–2 inches apart in rows 8–12 inches apart. Thin seedlings to the desired spacing once they germinate.

Indoor Sowing: Not recommended; carrots grow best when directly sown outdoors.

Succession Planting: Sow every 2–3 weeks for a continuous harvest during cool seasons.

Watering: Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, which can lead to stunted growth.

Fertilizing: Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer or compost at planting to promote root development. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen, which can cause excessive leafy growth.

Pruning: No pruning is needed, but remove weeds regularly to reduce competition.

Pest and Disease Control: Watch for carrot flies and root-knot nematodes. Use row covers and crop rotation to minimize pest risks.

When to Harvest: Harvest when roots are 3–4 inches long, typically 55–65 days after planting.

How to Harvest: Gently loosen the soil around the roots and pull them up by the tops. Avoid damaging roots during harvest.

Seed Collection: Allow some plants to bolt and form seed heads. Collect seeds once the heads are dry.

Storing Seeds: Store seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.