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Carrots are a small root vegetable that fits well into most balanced diets – not only do they provide a unique sweetness (especially for a root vegetable) but their crunchy texture makes them an incredibly versatile ingredient in the kitchen.
But before you can harvest these sweet root vegetables, there’s the matter of understanding how long it takes for them to fully mature.
Harvesting carrots that haven’t had enough time to grow and fully ripen is a sad and unfortunate waste.
Read on below where we explain their growth cycle and provide advice on what steps should be taken for successful cultivation.
How Much Time Do Carrots Need to Grow?
On average, carrots take between 60 and 80 or 90 days to grow enough that they can be harvested – although the exact amount of time depends heavily upon their environment and other significant factors.
Weather conditions such as temperature and amount of sunlight will play a large part in determining the exact length of time needed.
Furthermore, different varieties have slightly different maturation times so make sure you research these beforehand!
Practical Steps to Ensure Thriving Carrot Growth
For your carrot plants to thrive there are several steps you can take in order to ensure maximum growth.
Let’s have a look at three practical steps to ensure your carrots grow as much as possible before harvesting:
- Firstly, choose an area with plenty of direct sunlight; Carrots need at least 6 hours per day in order to yield good results!
- Additionally, make sure that your soil has adequate drainage and nutrients; this helps prevent damping off or root rot which is common amongst many root crops and vegetables.
- And lastly, regular watering throughout the season is essential so don’t forget about this vital step!
Another great tip is reading the farmer’s almanac, and following any special instructions they suggest for your carrot growth this year.
Recap of How Long it Takes to Grow Carrots
When looking at the delicious rewards reaped from growing a crop like carrots, it pays to understand how long it takes before they become harvestable.
On average most varieties of small root veggies like carrots require around 60 to 80 days to grow properly.
However, keep in mind that many environmental factors also have an effect – so plan accordingly.
Also, remember that your skills as a gardener, and how well you tend to your carrots and garden, in general, is another determining factor on how long it takes your carrots to grow into maturity.
With some good planning and patience, you should soon enjoy delicious homegrown carrots – best of luck!
Suggested Reading: How to Grow Carrots: Gardening Guide
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