Purple Carrot
Daucus carota subsp. sativus
Family: Apiaceae
Purple carrots are the original carrot color, predating the familiar orange variety. With stunning purple skin and often orange or yellow interiors, these heirloom roots offer unique visual appeal and extra antioxidants.
Days to Harvest
65-80 days
Sun Needs
Full Sun (6+ hours)
moderate
Germination Temp
70°F optimal
Start Indoors
0 weeks before last frost
Germination
10-21 days
Seed Depth
1/4 inch
Light to Germinate
No
💡 Tip: Seeds are slow to germinate. Keep soil consistently moist. Mix tiny seeds with sand for even distribution.
Soil Type
Deep, loose, sandy loam free of rocks and debris
pH Range
6 - 6.8
Spacing
2-3 inches between plants, 12-18 inches between rows
⚠️ Avoid planting near:
History
Purple and white carrots were the original domesticated carrots, cultivated in Persia (Iran/Afghanistan) around the 10th century. Orange carrots weren't developed until the 17th century in the Netherlands. Purple carrots are making a comeback for their beauty and health benefits.
Nutritional Benefits
- ✓Higher in antioxidants than orange carrots
- ✓Contains anthocyanins (purple pigment)
- ✓High in beta-carotene
Optimal Growing Temp
60°F - 70°F
Purple carrots grow best in cool weather. The purple color develops best in cool conditions.
Survival Range
45°F - 85°F
Can survive these temperatures
Frost Note: Tolerates light frost. Frost sweetens roots and intensifies color.
Best USDA Zones
Humidity
50-70%
Moderate humidity is fine.
Height
8-12 inches
Spread
3-4 inches
Growth Habit
upright
Germination
10-21 days
Slow germination like all carrots. Keep soil moist.
Seedling Stage
Duration: 3-4 weeks
True leaves: Ferny leaves appear
Transplant ready: Direct sow only.
Vegetative Growth
Duration: 6-10 weeks
Purple color develops as roots mature.
Harvest Maturity
Timing: 60-75 days
- Purple shoulders visible
- Root diameter 1/2-1 inch
Per Plant
1 carrot (4-8 oz)
Per Square Foot
16 carrots
Harvest Frequency
Harvest as needed
Factors Affecting Yield
- •Loose soil
- •Consistent moisture
- •Proper thinning
Seedling Stage
Keep surface moist
Established Plants
1-1.5 inches per week
Preferred Method
Drip irrigation. Avoid crusting soil surface.
⚠️ Critical Watering Periods
- • Germination
- • Root development
Pro Tips
- Consistent moisture is critical
Feeding Schedule
Soil prep
Compost
Once
Organic Options
Avoid fresh manure.
Minimum Size
12 inches deep
Recommended Size
12-18 inches deep
Depth Required
Depends on variety
Best Varieties for Containers
Container Tips
- Choose shorter varieties
- Light potting mix
- Thin properly
Plant Every
Every 2-3 weeks
Sowings/Season
4-6
Duration
Spring through fall
Tips
- Fall crops have best color
