How to Grow Carrots in containers

If you don't have a garden or only have a tiny space like a patio, balcony or terrace, you can still grow carrots from seed, 

What Planter do I need for Carrots?

Carrots are all about the roots so you need a deep planter to give them room.  There are some dwarf varieties that are super tasty which could survive in a shallower pot but deeper is better when it comes to carrots.  

Well, not only do we sell Carrot Planters that make it easy to grow perfectly formed carrots on your patio, we've also got some helpful advice on how to get started: 

Step 1: 

Add a layer of gravel to the bottom of your planter, just level with the drainage holes.

 

 

 

 

Step 2: 

Add multipurpose compost up to 4cm (1½") from the top of the Planter and water if very dry.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step 3:

Mark out 2 trenches 13mm (1/2") deep 15cm (6") apart. I’ve used a bamboo cane here, but you can use a 'dibber' or even a finger if you like!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step 4:

Empty seeds into the palm of your hand – this will make it easier to space the seeds out when you go to sow them in the ‘drills’ you made.

 

 Step 5:

Sow your carrot seeds like the experts. 

Starting with the little finger, roll each digit in a 'mexican wave' fashion so that the seeds roll off the side of your palm. This takes a bit of practice, so try doing it on a folded sheet of paper first. Remember to sow thinly, carrots need space and 'thinning out' will only increase the risk of attracting carrot fly.

Step 6: Cover over the drills you made with compost and water using a watering can. Make sure the ‘rose’ head attachment is fixed on securely so you don’t wash all the seeds away!

If you have sowed too many seeds then you will need to thin them out.  Be very careful when doing this as the scent from bruised carrot seedlings is sure to attract carrot flies.  Read this blog before you tackle thinning How to Protect Carrots from Carrot Flies Unlike many plant pests which come along later, when growing carrots from seed you need to think like a carrot fly right from the start!