Rainbow Carrots
Daucus carota subsp. sativus
Family: Apiaceae
Rainbow carrot mixes include a variety of colors—orange, purple, red, yellow, and white—in a single packet. Growing a rainbow of carrots adds visual excitement to meals and provides a range of phytonutrients.
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: Different colors may germinate at slightly different rates. Be patient and keep soil moist throughout.
Soil Type
Deep, loose, sandy loam free of rocks
pH Range
6 - 6.8
Spacing
2-3 inches between plants, 12-18 inches between rows
⚠️ Avoid planting near:
History
Before orange carrots dominated, carrots naturally came in many colors. Rainbow mixes celebrate this diversity, combining heirloom and modern varieties. The different colors come from various antioxidants and pigments.
Nutritional Benefits
- ✓Orange: High in beta-carotene
- ✓Purple: Rich in anthocyanins
- ✓Yellow: Contains xanthophylls
Optimal Growing Temp
60°F - 70°F
Rainbow carrots grow like standard carrots—cool weather produces best flavor and color.
Survival Range
45°F - 85°F
Can survive these temperatures
Frost Note: Tolerates light frost. Frost sweetens roots.
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. Keep moist.
Seedling Stage
Duration: 3-4 weeks
True leaves: Ferny leaves
Transplant ready: Direct sow only.
Vegetative Growth
Duration: 6-12 weeks
Colors develop as roots mature.
Harvest Maturity
Timing: 55-80 days depending on variety
- Colored shoulders visible
- Proper diameter
Per Plant
1 carrot
Per Square Foot
16 carrots
Harvest Frequency
Harvest as needed
Factors Affecting Yield
- •Loose soil
- •Proper thinning
Seedling Stage
Keep surface moist
Established Plants
1-1.5 inches per week
Preferred Method
Drip irrigation preferred.
⚠️ Critical Watering Periods
- • Germination
Pro Tips
- Consistent moisture is key
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 for containers
Plant Every
Every 2-3 weeks
Sowings/Season
4-6
Duration
Spring through fall
Tips
- Note which colors mature first
