I've grown carrots in raised planters and filled them with "Mel's Mix", which is 1/3 compost, 1/3 vermiculite (coarse grade), and 1/3 peat. We make our own compost; the in-laws live near a peat bog & the owner sells it cheaply; we just had to buy the vermiculite. I've read that folks make their own mixes, even using part garden soil and other things that they can get inexpensively, but I only have experience with the original. The carrots LOVE it! They grow quickly, straight and aren't as bothered by bugs. You do have to keep a watch for drying of the soil as you do whenever you grow in containers or raised beds. I don't fertilize during the season, but check the pH and add lime or wood ashes as needed and replenish the compost after each crop comes out or before the next goes in- one hand trowel full/sq. ft.
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