How to Grow Carrots in the UK
Carrots are a simple and rewarding vegetable to grow in the UK. They don’t need much space, grow well in cool weather, and can be planted directly into the soil without starting indoors.
They’re especially good for beginners because they require very little maintenance once established.
With loose soil and regular watering, carrots are usually reliable and easy to grow.
When to plant carrots
Carrot seeds can usually be sown outdoors between March and July in the UK.
Because carrots grow best in cooler conditions, early spring and late summer sowings often produce the best results.
Sow small batches every few weeks to enjoy a continuous harvest.
Where to grow carrots
Carrots grow best in:
garden beds
raised beds
deep containers
They need a sunny position and soil that drains well.
Containers work particularly well if garden soil is heavy or stony.
Soil requirements
Loose, stone-free soil is the most important factor when growing carrots.
If soil is compacted or contains stones, carrots may grow:
twisted
forked
shorter than expected
Avoid adding fresh compost or manure immediately before planting, as this can affect root growth.
Raised beds and containers often produce the straightest carrots.
How to plant carrots
Carrots are best grown from seed sown directly into the soil.
To plant carrots:
Make a shallow drill in the soil
Sow seeds thinly along the row
Cover lightly with soil
Water gently
Once seedlings appear, thin them so carrots have space to grow.
Avoid moving seedlings — carrots do not transplant well.
Watering carrots
Carrots need steady moisture, especially while roots develop.
Keep soil:
evenly moist
not waterlogged
Dry soil can cause carrots to split or grow poorly.
Regular watering during dry weather helps roots develop properly.
Common problems
Carrots are generally easy to grow, but beginners sometimes notice:
forked roots from stones in soil
poor germination in dry conditions
small carrots from overcrowding
Thin seedlings early to give carrots enough space.
Harvesting carrots
Carrots can usually be harvested about 10–14 weeks after sowing, depending on the variety.
You can harvest them when they reach a usable size rather than waiting too long.
Loosen soil gently before pulling carrots to avoid breaking them.
Beginner tips
Carrots are easier to grow than many beginners expect.
For best results:
use loose soil
sow seeds directly outdoors
keep soil moist during germination
thin seedlings early
Small, regular sowings often work better than planting everything at once.