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ROOT VEGETABLE

Carrot

Daucus carota var. sativa

Carrots are normally sown where they will grow because transplanting can distort the root. Final spacing is created by careful sowing or thinning. [1][2]

Plant
Carrot
Category
Root vegetable
Spacing
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SOURCE-BACKED GUIDANCE

Plant spacing

Plan carrot spacing for a direct-sown crop while keeping variety size and row spacing in view.

Home-garden final spacing

Plant spacing
2–4 in

University of Minnesota guidance; use the wider end for varieties expected to make larger roots. [1]

RHS row method

Plant spacing
5–7.5 cm (2–3 in) after thinning
Row spacing
15–30 cm (6–12 in)

RHS guidance for direct-sown rows. [2]

Growing-method context

Direct sow into prepared soil and thin only as needed to reach the intended final spacing. [1][2]

Planning notes

Soil condition and the expected root size affect which point in the published range is suitable. [1]

TURN GUIDANCE INTO A LAYOUT

Use the Plant Spacing Calculator

Choose the source entry that matches your plant and growing method, then enter that spacing yourself. The calculator applies only the geometry you provide.

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Sources

  1. University of Minnesota Extension: Growing carrots and parsnips in home gardensReviewed by Grownestia 2026-09-08
  2. Royal Horticultural Society: How to grow carrotsReviewed by Grownestia 2026-09-08