When to Plant Carrots in Clark County, SD
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.
Clark County, South Dakota is in USDA Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 3 and the first fall frost is October 5, giving you a growing season of approximately 155 days.
At an elevation of 799 feet, Clark County receives approximately 28.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 81°F, so choose short-season varieties of Carrots to ensure they mature before fall.
Clark County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.3
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 — Clark County, SD
Carrots Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 26 | Apr 26 – May 17 |
| Fall Sowing | July 13 | Jul 13 – Jul 27 |
| Harvest | June 28 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 |
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 | 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
155 days
Growing Tips for Clark 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 Clark County, SD?
Clark County is in Zone 4a with an average last frost of May 3. Plan your Carrots planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Clark County, SD?
Clark County, South Dakota is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 3 and first fall frost is October 5.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Clark County gardeners in Zone 4a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.