Carrots are typically harvested based on their maturity, which depends on the variety and growing conditions. Here are the main points on when to harvest carrots:
- Baby carrots are usually ready to harvest about 50 to 60 days after planting.
- Mature carrots generally need about 75 days or more from planting to be ready for harvest.
- Most carrots are ready to pick when the shoulders (top of the root just under the soil) are about 1/2 to 3/4 inch (1.2-2 cm) in diameter.
- You can also check the carrot tops: if the greens are about 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) tall and the top of the root is visible or you can feel a shoulder under the soil, it's a good indication the carrots are ready.
- The days to maturity listed on the seed packet is a good guide, usually around 60 to 75 days from germination.
- Spring-planted carrots should be harvested before the heat of summer to avoid toughness.
- Fall-planted carrots can be left in the ground until after the first frost, which improves their sweetness.
- To harvest, loosen the soil with a garden fork and carefully pull or lift the carrot out to avoid breaking the tops.
In summary, carrots are typically harvested 2 to 3 months after planting, based on size and visible signs above the soil. Longer growing times may be needed depending on variety and climate. It's best to monitor the carrot shoulders and tops and use the seed packet maturity time as your main guide.
