When to Plant Carrots in Ontario County, NY
Carrots are a popular root vegetable available in orange, purple, white, and yellow varieties. They are rich in beta-carotene and have a sweet, earthy flavor.
Ontario County, New York is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 29 and the first fall frost is October 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 174 days.
At an elevation of 33 feet, Ontario County receives approximately 50 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Carrots to ensure they mature before fall.
Ontario County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
4.9-6.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Carrots Planting Timeline — Ontario County, NY
Carrots Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 15 | Apr 15 – May 6 |
| Fall Sowing | August 11 | Aug 11 – Aug 25 |
| Harvest | June 17 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | Direct Sow |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
60–80 days
Soil pH
6 – 6.8
USDA Zone
Zone 5b
Growing Season
174 days
Growing Tips for Ontario County
Sow seeds directly in loose, stone-free soil for straight roots. Keep soil moist until germination which can take 2-3 weeks. Thin seedlings to 2 inches apart.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Isolate 1/2 mile from Queen Anne's Lace (wild carrot). Biennial — requires two seasons.
Carrots in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Carrots in Ontario County, NY?
Ontario County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 29. Plan your Carrots planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Ontario County, NY?
Ontario County, New York is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 29 and first fall frost is October 20.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Ontario County gardeners in Zone 5b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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