Steve Yoder
I'm Steve, a 30-something urban gardener fascinated by companion planting research. Growing up surrounded by greenery sparked my passion for gardening early on. I enjoy transforming my small backyard, experimenting with companion planting techniques and eco-friendly practices. Sustainability matters—I advocate for native plants and composting.
Table of Contents
Carrots are perennials, meaning they grow for several years before they need to be replaced. They grow best in spring and fall. There, the soil is warm and moist but not too hot or humid. Carrots prefer full sun but don’t mind partial shade. The soil should be loose and sandy with a pH of around 7 (neutral). To get the best carrots, plant them near other plants (carrot companion plants) that will help them grow better. After reading this article, you will be informed about the best carrot companion plants and also which companion plants you should avoid!
Why Carrot Companion Planting?
Companion planting is a practice of growing a variety of plants together. The idea is that certain plants work well together and can help each other grow better. Carrot companion plants help carrots grow faster and get more nutrients from the soil. Before we have a look at some carrot companion plants, let’s check out some tips on growing carrots indoors and outdoors.
Growing Carrots in a Nutshell
Carrots are root vegetables, and they need sunlight to grow. They also need water, nutrients, and well-drained soil. A pH between 6.0–7.0 is ideal for carrots; this allows them to take up nutrients from the soil as they grow. Keep your carrot bed watered throughout the season with a drip irrigation system or by hand every few days during dry spells.
Growing Carrots in Pots
Carrots can be grown indoors in a container1. The main requirements for growing carrots indoors are:
- Sunlight: Carrots need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. You have to place them in a sunny spot that receives at least 12 hours of sunlight.
- Soil drainage: Carrots grow best in loose, sandy soil that drains well and is slightly acidic (pH 5-6). If you’re using soil from outdoors or purchased from a garden center, add organic matter. For example, use compost to make the soil more porous and improve its drainage.
- Watering schedule: Carrots need plenty of water throughout the spring and summer months when they’re growing. So make sure to keep them well watered during this period. Water them every few days until harvest time arrives around September/October!
Planting Carrots in a Hydroponics System
Many gardeners prefer to grow carrots in a hydroponics system. This type of gardening allows you to grow carrots without having to use soil. The benefit is that you don’t have to worry about the pH or texture of the soil. Furthermore, your vegetables will be able to get plenty of nutrients through their roots. In this way, they’re growing right next to them in a nutrient solution instead of having to look out for their nutrients throughout dirt and debris.
Yet, there are some drawbacks when it comes to using hydroponics systems. One problem is that they’re expensive. You’ll need several different components like pumps, pipes, and containers before you can even start planting any carrot seeds! You also may need help from an expert if this is your first time setting up a hydroponic system. It can be confusing at first! Once everything’s set up though (and assuming everything goes according to your plan), everything you have to do is wait for your delicious carrots!
Carrot Companion Plants
While growing carrots, consider choosing these plants as companions:
As mentioned above, peas, onions, chives, dill, and tomatoes count as good companion plants. Carrots and tomatoes work well together as they both prefer similar growing conditions. Carrots also do well with onions because they help to deter root flies. You can plant carrots in between rows of chives to keep out the ants that love to eat your carrot tops!
Bad Carrot Companion Plants
Unfortunately, some plants don’t work well with carrots. These include:
Garlic and leeks can cause root damage to carrot plants. Carrots and potatoes don’t grow well together because they compete for the same nutrients in the soil. Carrots do not like tomatoes and corn, which will stunt their growth. Lettuce will also stunt your carrot’s growth if planted near. That’s because lettuce draws away nutrients from other plants as it grows so close to them on the ground level.
References
- Yıldız, S. N., Dasgan, H. Y., & Dere, S. (2018, August). Comparison of substrate, hydroponic and aeroponic cultivation systems for the production of carrot root. In XXX International Horticultural Congress IHC2018: II International Symposium on Soilless Culture and VIII International 1273 (pp. 107-114).