Carrot Cultivation in South Africa

Carrots can be planted in most months of the year if the temperatures are correct for optimum growth. But a good norm is August to October and February to April.

How to plant carrots in South Africa?

In South Africa, it is advisable to plant carrot in moist soil and keep soil moist. Carrot seeds are sown directly in the field on ridges. Bear in mind, row planting is better than broadcast sowing. The seeding depth should be 25 mm to 40 mm in loose, light sands. A planting depth should be shallower 10 to 15 mm on heavier soils and in colder months. Then, slightly deeper planting is recommended in summer when the soil dries out quickly.

What month can you plant carrots in South Africa?

In South Africa, carrots grow well in cool weather. Therefore, you can begin planting carrot seedlings or sowing carrot seeds as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring, even two to three weeks before the last frost. You can succession plant carrots every couple of weeks throughout the spring.

What is the spacing technique required for carrot cultivation?

Carrot plants should be spaced 20 cm apart in rows that are 40 to 50 cm apart. A density of 150 to 200 plants per m².

What is the Growth period of carrot in South Africa?

In South Africa, the growth period of carrot is between 100 to 120 days.

Can I use fertilizers for carrots in South Africa?

Fertilizer recommendations should be based on soil analyses. As a general guide, 150 kg/ha fertilizer mixture of 2:3:4 (24) should be worked into the top 20 cm of soil before planting. Potassium should be applied at 4 then again at 8 weeks after planting. Limestone ammonium nitrate at a rate of 100 to 200 kg/ha should be applied as topdressing approximately 6 weeks after planting.

How can I irrigate carrot in South Africa?

Fertilizer recommendations should be based on soil analyses.
As a general guide, 150 kg/ha fertilizer mixture of 2:3:4 (24) should be worked into the top 20 cm of soil before planting. Bear in mind, potassium should be applied at 4 then again at 8 weeks after planting. Also, limestone ammonium nitrate at a rate of 100 to 200 kg/ha should be applied as topdressing approximately 6 weeks after planting.