Root Vegetable

When to Plant Carrots in Washington

Patience is the secret ingredient. Carrots are slow to germinate but deliver sweet, crunchy rewards.

The Short Answer

Washington State grows outstanding carrots on both sides of the Cascades. Eastern Washington's volcanic soils with irrigation produce commercial-quality roots, and western Washington's cool maritime climate supports one of the longest carrot seasons in the country — sow in March and harvest into December.

Washington Frost Dates

Your planting dates depend on which part of Washington you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:

Region Zones Last Frost (Spring) First Frost (Fall)
Western Washington (Seattle/Tacoma) 8a, 8b Mar 25 - Apr 15 Oct 25 - Nov 15
Puget Sound 8b, 9a Mar 15 - Apr 5 Nov 1 - Nov 20
Eastern Washington 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a Apr 25 - May 15 Sep 25 - Oct 15
Central Washington 6a, 6b, 7a Apr 20 - May 10 Oct 1 - Oct 20

Carrots Planting Schedule for Washington

Western Washington (Seattle/Tacoma) (Zones 8a, 8b)

Average last frost: Mar 25 - Apr 15 · Average first frost: Oct 25 - Nov 15

Direct Sow
3 wks before frost
Fall Planting
10 wks before first frost

Puget Sound (Zones 8b, 9a)

Average last frost: Mar 15 - Apr 5 · Average first frost: Nov 1 - Nov 20

Direct Sow
3 wks before frost
Fall Planting
10 wks before first frost

Eastern Washington (Zones 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a)

Average last frost: Apr 25 - May 15 · Average first frost: Sep 25 - Oct 15

Direct Sow
3 wks before frost
Fall Planting
10 wks before first frost

Central Washington (Zones 6a, 6b, 7a)

Average last frost: Apr 20 - May 10 · Average first frost: Oct 1 - Oct 20

Direct Sow
3 wks before frost
Fall Planting
10 wks before first frost

Growing Carrots in Washington

State-Specific Growing Tips

Western Washington: direct sow from March through July. The cool maritime climate prevents bitterness and allows extended harvest. Fall-sown carrots left under mulch can be harvested through winter. Eastern Washington: sow from April through June. The hot summers produce fast growth but can cause bitterness — harvest promptly. Irrigate consistently. WSU Extension considers carrots one of the best root crops for both sides of the state.

Recommended Varieties for Washington

Nantes types for western WA's clay-loam soils. Bolero for fall and winter harvest. Eastern WA: any variety thrives in the volcanic soils. Nelson and Napoli are productive in the Puget Sound region. Rainbow varieties for visual appeal.

Common Challenges in Washington

In western WA: carrot rust fly — the primary pest; row cover is essential. Slugs eat seedlings. In eastern WA: minimal pest issues in the dry climate. Both regions: slow germination means weed management is critical during the 2-3 week waiting period.

Growing Tips

Loose, sandy soil is ideal. Rocky or clay soil causes forked roots. Keep soil consistently moist until seeds germinate.

Companion Planting

Plant carrots alongside these companions for better growth:

Peas Lettuce Tomatoes Onions

Keep carrots away from:

Dill

The Bottom Line

Carrots can be grown successfully in Washington with proper attention to regional frost dates and local growing conditions. Timing varies across the state — Western Washington (Seattle/Tacoma) gardeners work with a last frost around Mar 25 - Apr 15, while Central Washington sees frost end around Apr 20 - May 10. Choose varieties suited to your region, amend your soil based on its specific needs, and monitor for the pests and diseases most common in your area. For exact dates based on your zip code, use our free planting date finder.

Related Guides

Carrots Growing Guide National planting guide with all states Washington Planting Calendar All plants for Washington Carrots in Alabama Alabama planting dates Carrots in Alaska Alaska planting dates Carrots in Arizona Arizona planting dates Carrots in Arkansas Arkansas planting dates
Note: All dates are based on NOAA 30-year Climate Normals and represent historical averages, not predictions for any specific year. Always check your local weather forecast before planting frost-sensitive crops. Learn about our data sources.

Last reviewed: March 29, 2026

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