When to Plant Carrots in McLean County, ND
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.
McLean County, North Dakota is in USDA Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 12 and the first fall frost is September 30, giving you a growing season of approximately 141 days.
At an elevation of 1,071 feet, McLean County receives approximately 21.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 82°F, so choose short-season varieties of Carrots to ensure they mature before fall.
McLean County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.6-7.8
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
Water stress score is 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Carrots Planting Timeline — McLean County, ND
Carrots Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | May 5 | May 5 – May 26 |
| Fall Sowing | July 8 | Jul 8 – Jul 22 |
| Harvest | July 7 | Jul 7 – Aug 11 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| 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 4a
Growing Season
141 days
Growing Tips for McLean 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 McLean County, ND?
McLean County is in Zone 4a with an average last frost of May 12. Plan your Carrots planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is McLean County, ND?
McLean County, North Dakota is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 12 and first fall frost is September 30.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help McLean County gardeners in Zone 4a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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