Wild carrot (Daucus carota) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

Wild carrot requires approximately 2.5 cm of water a week, either through rainfall or irrigation. If irrigating, use a drip irrigator or soaker hose as wild carrot prefers a slow deep soak. Try to water in the morning and ensure that the soil is thoroughly moist for the full moisture benefit.

Fertilization

If the soil is fertile, your wild carrot will survive without fertilizer. Once the carrot tops reach 8 cm, apply a granular fertilizer at 50% of the manufacturer’s recommendation. Try to use a low nitrogen but high potassium or phosphate product. Once applied, water well.

Soil

Sand, Loam, Clay, Chalky, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial sun

Hardiness Zones

3 to 9

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Wild carrot

Water

Twice per week

Sunlight

Full sun

Hardiness Zones

3 to 9

Planting Time

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

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Questions About Wild carrot

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Wild carrot?

Not only does the Wild carrot have certain preferences regarding how much water it receives, but it also cares deeply about how you provide that water. In fact, if you don't use the proper watering technique, you risk harming your tomatoes. The best way to water Wild carrot is to apply the water directly to the soil in a slow and gentle manner. You should not pour all of the water into the soil at once, and you should not do overhead watering for your Wild carrot. Although you should water slowly, you should also water deeply to ensure that all of the soil in which your Wild carrot grows is sufficiently moist.

What should I do if I water my Wild carrot too much or too little?

If you find that you have overwatered your Wild carrot and you are concerned about the associated risk of disease, you should intervene immediately. Often the best approach for an overwatered Wild carrot is to uproot it from its current growing location. Once the plant is out of the ground, you can allow its roots to dry a bit before planting it in a new growing location. Ensure that the new growing location has soil with good drainage. If you grow in pots, you may also want to move your plant to a pot with more or larger drainage holes. In the case of underwatering, all you will need to do is increase the frequency with which you supply water to your plant.

How often should I water my Wild carrot?

Overall, Wild carrot requires a significant amount of water throughout the growing season. To meet that high water need, you'll need to water early and often throughout the spring and summer. During the earlier parts of the growing season, you should water your Wild carrot about once or twice per week. As the season progresses, you should increase your watering frequency. You may need to water it twice per day or more during summer, depending on the weather. After your Wild carrot have gone through their major seasonal growth phases, you can reduce the frequency of your watering to about once per week until the end of the growing season.

How much water does my Wild carrot need?

Since Wild carrot are incredibly popular, with many professional and amateur gardeners growing them successfully, we have a pretty clear idea of how to care for these plants. That understanding includes specific knowledge about the precise volume of water an average Wild carrot should receive. Generally, Wild carrot will require about 1 - 1.5 inches of water per week. That volume should be dispersed evenly through your weekly watering. As the weather gets warmer, you may need to supply more water, but in most cases, two inches per week is a good baseline amount.

How can I tell if i'm watering my Wild carrot enough?

Underwatering and overwatering can both occur as problems for your Wild carrot, and both these problems can manifest with similar symptoms. For example, foliage discoloration and wilting can both result from either overwatering or underwatering. When your Wild carrot is underwatered, its leaves will be curling and drooping at the beginning. You will see a bunch of leaves turn less vigorous. Underwatering is also likely to cause stunted growth and poor overall development as both the flowers and this plant require a high amount of water. Overwatering is more likely to lead to disease, including rot. Overwatering may also lead to unpleasant smells rising from your plant's soil. The symptoms of underwatering will show up quicker than overwatering. Overwatering can also be evident in soil conditions. Mainly, if you notice a lot of standing water or waterlogged soils, overwatering is likely to occur.

How should I water my Wild carrot through the seasons?

As alluded to above, your Wild carrot's water needs will repeatedly change throughout the seasons. During most of spring and summer, you should water your Wild carrot about once every week. As the heat of summer arrives, you should plan to increase your watering frequency to once or twice per day. In the late summer and fall, towards the end of the harvest period, you can reduce your watering frequency to about once per week. After harvest has ended, you can cease watering as your Wild carrot has reached the end of its life cycle and will require no further soil moisture.

The maintenance schedule of Wild carrot will require you to alter the amount of water you provide depending on the plant's current growth stage. Early on, especially if you grow your Wild carrot from seeds, you'll need to provide water often enough to maintain consistent soil moisture, which encourages root development. When the plant becomes old enough to produce flowers, it will likely need even more water. During the fruit development growth stage, your Wild carrot will likely need the most water out of any growth period, at times requiring water more than twice per day. Following that phase, the water needs of Wild carrot will decline significantly.

What's the difference between watering Wild carrot indoors and outdoors?

Whether you grow Wild carrot indoors or outdoors can also play a role in how you water them. Wild carrot that grows outdoors may receive water from natural rainfall, which will reduce the amount of supplemental water you should supply. However, it is incredibly rare for rainfall to adequately replace your watering entirely. Plants that grow indoors, along with any Wild carrot that grows in a container, will need to be watered more frequently than those that grow in the ground outdoors. If you choose this route, please make sure that the plant gets enough water by checking the soil moisture within your pot often to keep your Wild carrot healthy.

Does my Wild carrot need to be pruned?

While you can let Wild carrot run wild, you’ll get a better crop yield and healthier plants when you prune them. Wild carrot are very susceptible to fungus when not pruned properly as it flourishes in areas where there’s a lot of moisture from rotting fruits, weeds, and dead/dying leaves. Proper upkeep by removing diseased, dead, or yellow leaves can reduce the amount of organic matter for the fungus to grow. Besides preventing disease, pruning your Wild carrot can also yield more fruit during harvest. Pinching back some of the smaller flower blooms will allow the plant to focus its energy on producing flowers and fruits. Once the fruits have emerged, you can also thin out the smaller ones to reduce resource competition.

When is the best time to prune my Wild carrot?

When to prune depends a lot on the Wild carrot growth phase. You should avoid removing any healthy foliage before the plant starts flowering and fruiting as it can have a negative effect on fruit yield. With that said, you can remove dead leaves at any time as that will keep your plant healthy and ward off potential pests and diseases. Look for any leaves that are yellow or brown and have lost their glossiness. Leaving behind dead leaves can prevent air circulation, which can result in the growth of fungus(spot on leaf or mold on fruit). As your fruits start growing and ripening, keep an eye out for overcrowding. The more fruits there are on a plant, the smaller they will grow. Plus, too many fruits can lead to poor air circulation, which can lead to fungus. Removing some of the fruits won’t harm overall yield too much. Plus, most people will plant more than one for their garden. In fact, you should probably expect to have around 7 to 10 plants per person to ensure enough fruit during the season.

What should I do after pruning my Wild carrot?

After pruning, always remove any clippings from the bed either by composting or disposing of them. Always make sure to fertilize and water the plants after you clear the debris as it can help give enough energy and nutrients to form new buds and crops. To ensure maximum fruit production the following year, make sure to give the plants at least one inch of water a week after you move them up until the first frost. When you’ve collected the last harvest and mowed back the plants, place a layer of mulch on top of the plants to protect them against the cold winter. Low temperatures can damage roots and crowns, leading to little to no yield the following spring. The best mulch to use is clean hay or straw as they won’t mat down and smother the plants.

How can I prune my Wild carrot during different growth stages?

Sure, wild Wild carrot might grow just fine without pruning, but for the healthiest plants and best yields, you’ll want to prune your plant. In the first year of planting, pinch back the flowers on all varieties to encourage vigorous growth. Prune prune back the first growth of flowers and then allow the other flowers to bloom. During their second season and onwards, you can let the plant flower as normal and focus only on removing old and/or dead leaves. Some gardeners also suggest keeping the number of fruit low on the plant as it could help reduce competition and lead to larger fruit sizes. However, this technique is disputed and not used in many greenhouses. You can always test it out by removing small fruits from a few plants to see if the overall size of the finished fruit is larger than on your other plants.

How can I prune my Wild carrot during different seasons?

There are a few times throughout the year when you’ll want to prune Wild carrot. If you’re putting new plants in the ground, you should prune only after the plant has already started to blossom and/or fruit as removing any healthy leaves can affect fruit production. Only remove leaves that are yellowed or diseased. You can do this throughout the growing season to keep your plants healthy. You can start pinching back blossoms when they bloom in the spring/summer and fruits during the summer.

What are other tips and tricks for pruning my Wild carrot?

The Wild carrot is particularly susceptible to fungus that occurs in damp environments with poor circulation. If you’re growing Wild carrot in matted rows, it’s easy for this fungus to spread, so you’ll want to keep your bed neatly pruned. Affected plants will have blossoms and fruits covered in a dusty, fungus. If you notice fungus (spot on leaf or mold on fruit), prune infected blossoms, fruits, and dead leaves immediately.

Are there any instructions for pruning my Wild carrot?

Pruning your Wild carrot means higher fruit yields, and who doesn’t want that? You’ll need some gardening gloves and sharp scissors or garden shears for clean cuts. You should check for any dead or old leaves and remove them as necessary throughout the spring and summer months. If you notice any disease or rot, remove the entire plant and soil to prevent the spread of infection. When pinching back flowers, prune the stalks at the base where they join the rest of the plant. Only remove the smallest flowers at first as those will produce the smallest fruit. You can also use a pair of scissors if you have a lot of Wild carrots, but you should look carefully before making your cut as you could accidentally cut off healthy flowers. If you decide not to pinch back the flowers, you may need to remove unripe fruit if you notice the plant getting too crowded. Remove any damaged fruit along with fruit that are significantly smaller than the others and/or aren’t developing properly. You should use a pair of sharp scissors and cut.

Are there any other tips and tricks for pruning my Wild carrot?

Wild carrot is particularly susceptible to fungus that occurs in damp environments with poor circulation. If you’re growing Wild carrot in matted rows, it’s easy for this fungus to spread, so you’ll want to keep your bed neatly pruned. Affected plants will have blossoms and fruits covered in a dusty, fungus. If you notice fungus (spot on leaf or mold on fruit), prune infected blossoms, fruits, and dead leaves immediately.

How much sunlight does Wild carrot need to grow?

Exact needs vary, but a minimum of 6 to 8 hours per day is a good rule of thumb for Wild carrot to grow and produce fruit.

What type of sunlight does Wild carrot need?

Wild carrot requires full sun, meaning that it should be grown in a location that gets direct sunlight that isn’t blocked by obstacles such as trees, fences, or buildings. In general, the faster the plant grows, the more hours of sunlight it will need. Morning sun is best for photosynthesis.

Should I protect Wild carrot from sun exposure?

Wild carrot should not need to be protected from the sun in most climates. Those who live in a desert or near the equator may find that the sun is too harsh for the types of plants they want to grow, but this is the exception.

What will happen if Wild carrot doesn't get enough sunlight?

All plants need sunlight to convert into energy. Plants that have a short growing season need even more light and energy than those that grow slowly, as they need to complete all their processes to grow and produce fruit within just a few months.

The first symptoms of insufficient sunlight in Wild carrot are pale and yellow leaves that are not able to generate enough chlorophyll to keep their healthy green color. The leaves may eventually fall off, and new growth is small and weak. The plant may become leggy and sparse as it stretches toward the available light.

Finally, without enough light the plant will not be able to produce large, high-quality edible leaves or fruit. Wild carrot needs to devote a lot of energy into growing leaves and fruits, so if there isn’t enough light available for it to convert, the harvest will suffer.

What will happen if Wild carrot gets too much sunlight?

Wild carrot can get sunburned from intense sunlight, especially when coupled with high temperatures and not having enough water. Afternoon sun tends to be most likely to burn plants. Scalded leaves develop faded patches of light brown to white on the areas at the top of the plant that are exposed to the most sun. They are especially vulnerable to this right after being transplanted from a shadier location to being in full sun. Transitioning plants gradually or providing them with a barrier while they are adjusting can help prevent sunscald in young plants.

In many cases, Wild carrot develops leaves that are large enough to protect fruits from the strongest rays of the sun. However, if intense sunlight is in contact with fruits, they can also be damaged. Avoid over-pruning those protective leaves so that the fruits don’t get burned.

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Wild carrot?

Wild carrot may become unbalanced if it gets significantly more light on one side than the other. Ideally, you can plant your Wild carrot in a location away from obstacles that might block light, and where the distribution of sunlight is even on all sides.

Be careful about planting tall species next to those that grow closer to the ground. It may not be obvious when the crops are first planted, but over time the taller plants may begin to block the amount of sunlight that can reach the shorter plants.

Morning sun helps to dry dew and precipitation, which helps prevent infection from diseases that can develop when water sits on the plant. If you are watering or irrigating your Wild carrot, this should be done in the morning.

What is the optimal temperature for Wild carrot?

There is an ideal temperature range that makes Wild carrot feel at home. Under these temperature conditions, it's unlikely that you’ll have any issues with cold or hot damage to the foliage, but changing leaf colors can absolutely be a sign that Wild carrot isn’t happy. Try to keep your Wild carrot well within its preferred range of 70-85℉(21-30℃), but don’t panic if the temperature creeps up past 85℉(30℃) during the day or down to 70℉(21℃) at night.

How can I protect Wild carrot from extreme temperatures outdoors?

If your Wild carrot happens to be planted outside, then there’s not much you can do to try to move it indoors. However, you can certainly provide cover in ways that will help it survive any extreme temperatures that may arise unexpectedly. For instance, you can always use a few stakes and some cloth to put together a shade tent that will block out much of the sun’s intense heat from direct sunlight exposure.

Similarly, Wild carrot can be protected from the extreme cold and especially chilly winds by building a small greenhouse around the plant, which will create a greenhouse effect and warm the plant up. This can be done using garden stakes and any sort of clear or translucent plastic you may have around; if you have greenhouse plastic such as polycarbonate laying around, this works perfectly. Remove the greenhouse once temperatures warm up to 40℉(10℃) at night.

Does Wild carrot need different temperatures in different seasons?

Generally speaking, Wild carrot needs to stay within its preferred temperature range all year long. However, that doesn’t mean that care should stay the same all year long. During the warmest months of the year, Wild carrot will need a little extra shade and a bit more of a breeze to help it cope with the hottest days. On the other hand, it may need to be moved away from chilly windows and doors during the cooler months in climates where temperatures drop below 40℉(10℃) at any point in the year.

What is the best way to maintain the right temperature for my Wild carrot?

Keeping your Wild carrot at the right temperature can be fairly simple. Depending on where you grow it, Wild carrot can be fairly easy to accommodate. For indoor growing, you can easily move the plant to different locations within your indoor space that best meet its temperature requirements. Avoid placing it near air conditioning vents, heaters, doors that open frequently, or drafty windows.

It is a little more difficult to control the temperature around your Wild carrot if it’s grown outside. Of course, if it’s planted in a pot, you can simply bring it indoors when the temperatures outside get too hot or too cold for Wild carrot, but otherwise, you may need to take different measures to protect it from extreme heat or cold that may damage it irreversibly. Try placing Wild carrot under cover to protect from both the harsh sun that can overheat it and any cold wind that could be potentially deadly for your plant.

Why do I need to fertilize my Wild carrot?

Wild carrot typically grows quickly, and uses a lot of energy to create the root vegetables we enjoy. Along with sunlight, oxygen, and water, Wild carrot species require nutrients to grow and produce roots. While these nutrients are generally present in garden soil because of the natural organic matter decomposition in and on top of the soil, there may be some cases where the nutrients are not abundant enough to support healthy Wild carrot growth. In these cases, fertilizer provides the boost that the Wild carrot needs.

When is the best time to fertilize my Wild carrot?

Apply natural fertilizer to your soil to prepare it for planting. There is no particular time frame you are required to follow, but be sure you have enough time to incorporate the fertilizer into the soil and water it thoroughly before putting seeds or seedlings in the ground.

In general, one application of fertilizer is enough to keep Wild carrot growing well throughout the season, but you can do one additional application once the seedlings have started to establish themselves if you want to boost their yield even more. Just be careful not to use too much fertilizer that could damage the plants.

When should I avoid fertilizing my Wild carrot?

Avoid fertilizing when conditions are dry, and always water plants thoroughly after fertilizing. All types of fertilizer are most effective when delivered through moist soil. Don’t use high-nitrogen fertilizers unless developing a lot of foliage is more important to you than the root crops. Be careful not to let fertilizer touch the base of the plant or splash onto leaves or stems, since this can cause the plant to burn.

What type of fertilizer does my Wild carrot need?

Most people grow Wild carrot in order to harvest the roots, although in many cases the foliage is also edible. To promote a healthy root system, choose a fertilizer with more phosphate and potassium compared with the amount of nitrogen. Bone meal and kelp are great choices for natural fertilizers, but chemical fertilizers can also be used. Just make sure the fertilizer doesn’t contain a large amount of nitrogen, since that is a less important nutrient for this particular vegetable.

The best way to determine what type of fertilizer to use for growing Wild carrot is to take a soil sample from the part of your garden that you are planning to use. Testing the soil will tell you which nutrients are needed, along with other important factors such as density and pH level. All of these factors contribute to your plant’s success, so it is a good idea to think of it holistically and treat the soil accordingly.

How do I fertilize my Wild carrot?

Fertilize Wild carrot by mixing an organic fertilizer such as bone meal or kelp into the soil prior to planting. If you need to fertilize again during the season, do so by using a layer of compost or well-rotted manure as mulch around (but not touching) the base of your Wild carrot. This material will break down gradually, allowing nutrients to soak through to the roots below.

For liquid fertilizers, dilute the fertilizer with water according to the instructions for your particular crop and spray it on the ground around the Wild carrot, being careful not to splash the plant. Granular fertilizers can be sprinkled around the base of the plant or between rows, or worked into the top layer of soil to keep the granules from being washed or blown away.

What happens if I fertilize my Wild carrot too much?

Too much fertilizer (especially chemical fertilizer) causes the plant to become stressed. Fertilizer burn is caused by excess salts that are contained in chemicals, which can dehydrate plant cells and cause yellowing and wilted foliage. Be aware that fertilizer burn symptoms can also look very similar to other issues including nutrient deficiency, so be sure to consider all the factors when diagnosing the issue with your Wild carrot.

Too much nitrogen fertilizer can cause energy to be diverted to foliage growth, leaving the roots and other parts of the plant with less resources. This can be especially disappointing when harvesting a plant that looks very healthy and vigorous above the ground, since the produce it creates doesn’t match its appearance.

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More About How-Tos

Explore 5 of plant how-tos on Feng shui direction, Water, Lighting, Temperature, Transplant, etc.

Feng shui direction

Southwest

Wild carrot is known for its positive energy in Feng Shui practice. Placing it in the Southwest direction of your space can strengthen relationships and attract good luck, as Earth is the element dominating this area. The balancing energy of wild carrot complements the nurturing quality of the Southwest, promoting harmony and stability.

Water

Twice per week

Wild carrot hails from regions with moderate climates, particularly Europe and southwestern Asia. It is accustomed to variable weather conditions, from drought to periods of consistent rainfall; thus, it has adapted to a diverse range of moisture levels. The average annual rainfall in its native habitat ranges from 500mm to 1500mm, suggesting that wild carrot requires moderate watering. Too much water could lead to root rot, while insufficient hydration may affect its biennial growth cycle.

Lighting

Full sun

Wild carrot thrives under an ample flow of sun's rays through most of the day, though can manage too under moderate exposure. Originating from habitats where solar exposure is generous, this plant's growth is influenced by such illumination. Excessive or limited light can affect its overall health and development.

Temperature

0 38 ℃

Wild carrot is native to areas that experience a moderate climate, ideally thriving in temperatures of 68 to 95 °F (20 to 35 °C). As the seasons change, it may be necessary to provide slightly warmer or cooler conditions to mimic its natural habitat.

Transplant

1-2 feet

The perfect season for transplanting wild carrot is during the delightful warmth of mid-spring to early summer. Choose a sunny or partially shaded location for optimal growth. Keep in mind that wild carrot adores well-draining soil and proper spacing. Enjoy the process!

Carrots, ivies and allies

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Wild carrot based on 10 million real cases

Flower withering

Flowers may dry out due to a sudden change in environment or because the plant has completed its normal flowering period.

Solutions: If flower withering is a natural progression due to age, there is nothing that can be done to slow or stop the process. Once hormones within the plant begin the process of senescence, it’s irreversible. For lack of water, immediately water the plant using room temperature rainwater, bottled spring water, or filtered tap water. Water container plants until excess water drains out the bottom; water in-ground plants until the soil is soaked but there isn’t standing water on the surface. In the event of nutritional deficiencies, the best solution is to use a granular or water-soluble liquid fertilizer, and apply it to the soil at about half the recommended dosage. Keep it off the leaves and make sure granular products are watered into the soil well. If the plant is infected with a bacterial or fungal pathogen, there is no course of treatment that cures the diseased plants. The best solution is to remove the infected plants and dispose of the plant material off-site. Do not put in a compost pile.

Plant dried up

The entire plant may dry out due to dieback or normal seasonal dormancy.

Solutions: The solution for a dried out plant depends on the cause, so determine the cause before selecting a treatment method. Adjust your watering: Stick your finger in the soil near the roots. If it feels bone dry or overly saturated, you need to adjust your watering frequency accordingly. Prune back dead foliage: Snip off any brown stems and leaves on the plant to make space for new growth. This encourages the roots to send up fresh stems. Move to a proper environment. This may involve decreasing or increasing sun exposure, depending on the species. Decrease fertilizer applications. If you have applied too much fertilizer, you can repot plants with fresh potting soil. Wait. If your plant has dried out as daylight is decreasing, it is entering dormancy. Decrease watering and wait until the plant resumes growth.

Root rot

Soft root rot can be caused by over-watering or pathogenic infection.

Solutions: These are the solutions for root rot: Stop applying water and allow the plant to dry out. In the case of potted plants, the gardener can remove plant from its container and lay it on a sheet of paper in a shady spot to speed the drying process. Cut away black mushy root material until healthy white material is reached. Sprinkle root ball with anti-fungal powder. Repot using sterilized potting mixture but don't water for first couple of days. Ensure that the new pot offers adequate drainage. Terracotta pots can absorb moisture into their walls. Adopt an appropriate watering regime. For most potted plants, refrain from watering until the first inch or two of the soil is dry to the touch. Even plants that prefer to be kept "evenly moist" should never be allowed to sit in soggy soil. Outdoor plants should not be receiving so much water that it pools at the surface of the soil.

Root deformity

Root deformities can have a variety of causes

Solutions: There are a few key steps to take if root deformity is suspected: Prevent the spread of fungal diseases - if a fungal pathogen is to blame for the root deformity, there’s not much to do once it sets into the soil. Prevent it from spreading by applying a fungicide or adjusting the soil pH based on what is needed for the specific type of plant. Do not re-use this soil for future plantings. Harvest selectively - for root vegetables like carrots or parsnips, the tubers may still be usable. Cull some of the crop or cut away affected areas, but the rest should still be safe to eat.

Sap-sucking insects

Sap-sucking insects can create dense clusters of small yellow or white spots on the leaves.

Solutions: Sap-sucking insects can be hard to spot, as they are often small and attach to the undersides of plant leaves. If you see signs of an infestation, follow these steps to eradicate it. Hand-pick bugs and remove eggs: Inspect your plants for insects and drop any you find in a container of soapy water. Look carefully at the undersides of plant leaves and squish any egg clusters you find. Use Insecticide: Targeted spraying can take out sap-sucking insects. Small infestations can be controlled with insecticidal soap, though larger outbreaks might require a stronger spray. Introduce natural predators: Many insects, including ladybugs and praying mantises, love to feast on sap-suckers. You can purchase them at garden stores and release them near infected plants, or encourage wild ones by creating habitat space.

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.

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Weed Control

Weeds

Wild carrot (Daucus carota) is a biennial herbaceous plant and a progenitor of the cultivated carrot. It is widespread in its native range – Europe, southwestern Asia, and North Africa – and it spreads equally well as an invasive species in North America, Australia, and other temperate regions. Wild carrot is considered a weed both in its native and naturalized range because of its ability to spread and outcompete other plants. It is a prolific seed producer that competes with and suppresses native plants in grasslands, meadows, and degraded prairies. It also commonly colonizes roadsides, wastelands, and other types of degraded land. Wild carrot can also negatively affect carrot cultivation through genetic pollution.

How to Control it

The best time to remove weeds is before their flowering and fructification, otherwise controlling them can be very difficult. After they have flowered and fructified, their seeds can spread very fast, and hence, the weeds should be removed more often and precautions should be taken in advance in the following year. Mulching: During the seed stage, covering the soil with sawdust, straw or black mulches can effectively inhibit seed germination and the growth of seedlings. In the winter or spring, this method is often used to inhibit the seeds in the soil from germinating. If the weeds have already flowered and fructified, then the method can also be used to prevent more seeds from falling into the soil. Pulling out: Wear gloves or use tools to remove weeds before their fructification. If the soil is too dry, then water the soil thoroughly to make it softer, which can help to remove the root systems of the weeds. After that, deep tillage can be adopted to remove bits of weed roots left in the ground. This method works particularly well for weeds that are low-growing or in their seedling stages. Take care when removing it, as it is allergenic. Mowing: Mowing weeds before their fructification can effectively control their spread. Cut it as close to the ground as possible during its blossom time. Especially for annual weeds, frequent mowing can inhibit their growth and fructification, and thus can remove them effectively within the year. Ploughing: Be sure to plough and pull out all roots of perennial weeds before planting. The roots should be discarded, exposed to the sun for a long time, or buried deep. You can also use the roots to make organic fertilizer and compost the weeds. It can be reduced by crop rotation. It can be effectively removed with herbicide. Note: When removing weeds, especially those which are toxic, thorny and have allergenic sap, be sure to wear gloves and avoid direct contact with them. When removing weeds during their bloom time, be sure to wear special masks to prevent pollen allergy.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Cultivated and wasteland, amongst grass

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Herb

Flower Color

White

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Wild carrot

Many scholars believed that it is the ancestor of all hybrid carrots. The specific epithet, "carota" is derived from the Greek word, karôton meaning carrot. As it is often grown in the wild, so it is called wild carrot.

Queen anne's lace

This kind of flower looks similar to Queen Anne's lace, which is one of the prestigious clothing accessories. The red flower in the centre is thought to represent a blood droplet in which Queen Anne accidentally pricked herself with a needle while making the lace. Hence, it is called Queen Anne's lace.

Symbolism

Wisdom, purity, sanctuary

Usages

Garden Use

The wild carrot can be kept in gardens and beds. It is ideally grown in vegetable gardens and prized for its edible carrots. The wild carrot has many uses in a large vegetable garden, as it is said to improve Tomato plant production and be good for the climate and soil surrounding Lettuce plants.

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Family

Umbellifers

Genus

Daucus

Species

Wild carrot

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Chinese silver grass

Chinese silver grass is a perennial grass that can grow 91 to 213 cm. It forms dense clumps from an underground rhizome. The chinese silver grass is grown mainly as an ornamental grass, with silvery leaves and flowers that vary in color based on the cultivar. Be careful where you plant this type of grass; in some zones it can become invasive.

Bradford pear

The bradford pear is native to China but is considered invasive in the U.S. and Australia. Although it does not self-pollinate, it can become invasive by hybridizing with other plants to create fertile fruits that may seed in natural areas. The bradford pear creates large populations of fruits that are spread by birds and animals, readily rooting in disturbed areas. It also forms thick colonies that may compete with other native species for natural resources. Alternative plants include the Trident Maple and the Serviceberry. The bradford pear can be controlled by manually pulling young plants, and a range of herbicides such as oil-based herbicides, foliar herbicides, and both basal bark and stump treatments. It is important to remove seed sources as the weed can reinvade areas where it has been previously removed.

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Most Common Herb

Plant Collection Most Common Herb Fragrant plantain lily See More The trademark feature of Asia-native plantain lilies is the numerous glossy oval leaves with deep parallel veins. The Fragrant plantain lily is additionally decorated with strongly fragrant, trumpet-shaped, large white flowers, which are unique in the genus. Hosta plantaginea is one of the favorite cultivatedContinue reading “Most Common Herb”

Plant Collection Best Biennial Plant to Grow Hollyhock See More Common hollyhock (Alcea rosea) is a stalk-flowering plant known for its height and attractive flowers. It regularly reaches head height or beyond – from 5 to 8 ft tall. The presence of Common hollyhock in a garden can also attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Add toContinue reading “Best Biennial Plant to Grow”

10 Vegetables That Will Self-Sow

Plant Collection 10 Vegetables That Will Self-Sow Self-sowing vegetables are some of the most convenient plants that you can grow in your garden if you want to enjoy an ongoing harvest. This article will introduce you to ten of the best vegetable plants in this category. Corn salad See More Corn salad (Valerianella locusta) isContinue reading “10 Vegetables That Will Self-Sow”

Plant Collection Best Biennial Plant to Grow Hollyhock See More Hollyhock (Alcea rosea) is a stalk-flowering plant known for its height and attractive flowers. It regularly reaches head height or beyond – from 5 to 8 ft tall. The presence of Hollyhock in a garden can also attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Add to My GardenContinue reading “Best Biennial Plant to Grow”

Most Common Herb

Plant Collection Most Common Herb Golden pothos See More The Golden pothos is a popular flowering house plant that’s commonly seen in Australia, Asia, and the West Indies. It goes by many nicknames, including “devil’s ivy,” because it is so hard to kill, and can grow in the dark. Golden pothos has poisonous sap, soContinue reading “Most Common Herb”

10 Wildflowers to Look For in Summer

Plant Collection 10 Wildflowers to Look For in Summer What better way to spend a summer’s day than a nature walk amidst fragrant blossoms? Let our list inspire you to explore the color show that Mother Nature has to offer in summertime. Find out where these wildflowers grow, and see how many you can spotContinue reading “10 Wildflowers to Look For in Summer”

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Add to My Garden

Wild carrot

Daucus carota

Also known as: Queen anne's lace, Bird's nest

The wild carrot is a common flowering plant with light, delicate flowers. Originally native to Europe and Asia, it has also spread to North America and Australia. Studies of historical paintings suggest that the wild carrot was cultivated in Turkey, Spain, and North Africa for centuries.

Water

Twice per week

Sunlight

Full sun

Care Guide for Wild carrot

Water

Fertilization

Soil

Sand, Loam, Clay, Chalky, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial sun

Hardiness Zones

3 to 9

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Questions About Wild carrot

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Wild carrot?

What should I do if I water my Wild carrot too much or too little?

How often should I water my Wild carrot?

How much water does my Wild carrot need?

How can I tell if i'm watering my Wild carrot enough?

How should I water my Wild carrot through the seasons?

What's the difference between watering Wild carrot indoors and outdoors?

Does my Wild carrot need to be pruned?

When is the best time to prune my Wild carrot?

What should I do after pruning my Wild carrot?

How can I prune my Wild carrot during different growth stages?

How can I prune my Wild carrot during different seasons?

What are other tips and tricks for pruning my Wild carrot?

Are there any instructions for pruning my Wild carrot?

Are there any other tips and tricks for pruning my Wild carrot?

How much sunlight does Wild carrot need to grow?

What type of sunlight does Wild carrot need?

Should I protect Wild carrot from sun exposure?

What will happen if Wild carrot doesn't get enough sunlight?

What will happen if Wild carrot gets too much sunlight?

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Wild carrot?

What is the optimal temperature for Wild carrot?

How can I protect Wild carrot from extreme temperatures outdoors?

Does Wild carrot need different temperatures in different seasons?

What is the best way to maintain the right temperature for my Wild carrot?

Why do I need to fertilize my Wild carrot?

When is the best time to fertilize my Wild carrot?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Wild carrot?

What type of fertilizer does my Wild carrot need?

How do I fertilize my Wild carrot?

What happens if I fertilize my Wild carrot too much?

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More About How-Tos

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Wild carrot based on 10 million real cases

Flower withering

Flowers may dry out due to a sudden change in environment or because the plant has completed its normal flowering period.

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Plant dried up

The entire plant may dry out due to dieback or normal seasonal dormancy.

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Root rot

Soft root rot can be caused by over-watering or pathogenic infection.

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Root deformity

Root deformities can have a variety of causes

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Sap-sucking insects

Sap-sucking insects can create dense clusters of small yellow or white spots on the leaves.

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Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

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Weed Control

Weeds

How to Control it

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Cultivated and wasteland, amongst grass

Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Herb

Flower Color

White

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Wild carrot

Queen anne's lace

Symbolism

Wisdom, purity, sanctuary

Usages

Garden Use

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Carrots, ivies and allies

Family

Umbellifers

Genus

Daucus

Species

Wild carrot

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Most Common Herb

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