Carrot Daucus carota subsp. sativus
ABOUT
Carrot plants typically grow to be about 1-2 feet tall, with a spread of 1-2 inches. The edible carrot itself is a taproot that can range in length from a few inches to over a foot, depending on the variety and growing conditions. The leaves of the carrot plant are fern-like and can grow up to a foot in length.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Apiaceae
Synonyms
Carrot
Common names
Carota sativa, Daucus sativus
ToxicityTo humans
Carrots are generally safe for human consumption and not considered toxic. However, excessive intake of carrots can cause carotenemia, a condition where the skin turns yellowish-orange due to the accumulation of beta-carotene.
To pets
Carrots are also generally safe for most animals to consume, including dogs and cats. However, feeding large amounts of carrots to rabbits and guinea pigs can lead to digestive issues, such as diarrhea, due to the high sugar and starch content in the root vegetable.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Biennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Height
Up to 2 feet
Spread
2 inches
Hardiness zones
2
Native area
Central Asia
Benefits
General BenefitsLow in calories: Carrots are low in calories, making them a great snack for those watching their weight.
High in fiber: Carrots are high in fiber, which can help keep your digestive system healthy and regular.
Versatile: Carrots can be eaten raw or cooked, and can be used in a variety of dishes, making them a versatile addition to any diet.
Good source of vitamins and minerals: Carrots are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin K, potassium, and more.
Medical PropertiesGood for eyesight: Carrots contain beta-carotene, which gets converted to vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is important for maintaining good eyesight and preventing age-related macular degeneration.
Boosts immunity: Carrots contain antioxidants, such as vitamin C, that help in boosting the immune system and protecting the body against infections.
Good for digestion: Carrots are rich in fiber, which helps in promoting digestion and preventing constipation.
Lowers cholesterol: Carrots contain pectin, a soluble fiber that helps in lowering cholesterol levels in the body.
Anti-inflammatory: Carrots contain carotenoids, which possess anti-inflammatory properties and may help in reducing inflammation in the body.
Good for skin: Carrots contain vitamin C, which helps in collagen production and keeps the skin healthy and glowing.
Regulates blood sugar: Carrots are low in glycemic index, which means they do not cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, making them a good food choice for people with diabetes.
Promotes weight loss: Carrots are low in calories and high in fiber, which makes them a good food choice for people trying to lose weight.
Air-purifying QualitiesCarrots do not have any known air purifying qualities. As a root vegetable, they are grown underground and do not contribute to indoor air quality.
Other UsesNatural dye: Carrot juice can be used as a natural dye for fabrics and other materials.
Insect repellent: The scent of carrots is known to repel certain insects, such as aphids and carrot flies. Planting carrots near other plants can help keep these pests away.
Arts and crafts: Carrots can be used to create stamps for art projects. Simply carve a design into the end of a carrot and use it to stamp onto paper or fabric.
Beauty treatments: Carrots contain vitamin A and antioxidants, which are beneficial for skin health. Applying mashed carrots to the face as a mask can help improve the appearance of skin.
Animal feed: Carrots are a common food for many domestic animals, including rabbits, horses, and goats.
Musical instruments: In some cultures, carrots have been used to create musical instruments, such as flutes and ocarinas.
Fuel: Carrots can be used as a biofuel source. The sugars in carrots can be fermented to produce ethanol, which can be used as fuel.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThere is no specific use of carrot in feng shui
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThere is no specific use of carrot in astrology
Plant SymbolismIn some cultures, carrots are also associated with protection and warding off evil spirits.
WaterCarrots prefer well-draining soil that is consistently moist but not waterlogged, so they should be watered deeply once a week or more frequently in hot, dry weather.
LightCarrots grow best in full sun, which means at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. They can tolerate some shade, but it may result in slower growth and smaller carrots.
TemperatureCarrots prefer cooler temperatures between 60-70°F, but they can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F and as high as 80°F. However, extremely hot temperatures may cause the carrots to become tough and woody.
PruningCarrots do not require pruning, as they are root vegetables.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThey do prefer well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8.
RepottingCarrots are typically grown in the ground, rather than in containers, so they don't need to be repotted.
Humidity & MistingAs for humidity, carrots don't require any specific level of humidity, but they do prefer a dry growing environment. It's important to keep the soil consistently moist, but not overly watered, to prevent the carrots from becoming woody or cracking.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not growing
Outdoor
Cultivated almost all over the world during the growing season
Hardiness zone
USDA 3 and higher
Life cycleCarrots are biennial plants that are typically grown as annuals for their edible roots. The stages of life of carrots include:
Seed germination: Carrot seeds usually take 7-14 days to germinate. The ideal temperature for germination is around 60-65°F (15-18°C).
Seedling stage: After germination, the seedlings will emerge from the soil and grow their first true leaves. At this stage, it is important to thin out the plants to give them enough space to grow.
Vegetative growth: The carrot plants will continue to grow leaves and roots, and will eventually produce a flower stalk in their second year if left unharvested.
Root development: The carrots will continue to grow and develop their edible roots over several months. The optimal temperature range for carrot growth is between 60-70°F (15-21°C).
Harvest: Carrots can typically be harvested 60-80 days after planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions. The optimal time for harvest is when the roots are about 1 inch in diameter.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring - early summer
Carrots are usually propagated through direct seeding, and it is recommended to sow them outdoors as they do not transplant well. They can be planted as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring, typically around March to May, depending on the climate. In mild winter areas, they can also be planted in the fall, typically around August to September. Carrots can take anywhere from 2 to 4 months to reach maturity, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
PestsAphid
DiseasesRoot Rot, Rust
