Loose, stone-free soil prevents misshapen roots. Do not transplant; cool winter soil slows germination and sizing.
EdibleCool-season crop
Growing spaceVegetable bedClimate fitUrban core · USDA 9b–10a · Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b · Desert outskirts · USDA 8b–9bCrop familyApiaceae (carrot)Life cycleAnnual cropPhoenix planting windowSeptember–March; best germination after the soil cools.How to plantDirect sow only; keep the shallow seedbed moist until emergence.Plant spacingThin to 2–3 inFrostTolerates light frost once established; cover during a hard freeze.Time to harvestAbout 60–100 daysSuccessionSow short rows every 2–3 weeks.Special categoriesEDIBLETypical harvestPull roots from late fall through spring.
Before you plant
These conditions determine whether it will thrive.
Cold hardinessHardy here
Very cold hardy, and the roots stay safe in the soil. Cold nights make them sweeter.
Leaves and wood: damaged below 25°FHeat toleranceShade from late-afternoon sun
Warm soil makes roots tough, bitter and pale, though they don't bolt the first year. Spring sowings can go into March or April, but harvest before May heat.
