Carrots are great for kids. They are easy to grow, healthy and come in a range of fascinating colours. That’s why they are this week’s Vegie on View.

1. Carrots come in a range of colours – common orange, purple, red, yellow, black and even white!
2. Carrots are a root vegetable. Most people only eat the taproot however the stem and leaves can be eaten too.
3. Carrots are part of the parsley family. Other members include fennel, dill, parsley, parsnip, celery and coriander.
4. It is thought that carrots originated in Afghanistan.
5. They were originally used for medicinal purposes rather than for food.
6. Orange carrots get their colour from beta carotene.
7. Eating too many carrots can cause your skin to become orange. If this happens simply stop eating carrots and your skin will return to its natural colour with no lasting damage.
8. Orange carrots were developed in Holland during the 17th century.
9. Carrots are an excellent source of beta carotene which converts to vitamin A. Vitamin A is important for eye health. They are also a great source of dietary fibre.
10. They like to grow in light, sandy, well-drained soil. If the soil is rocky the roots will bend, twist and fork causing funny shaped carrots.
11. They are super versatile and can be used in a wide range of recipes including soups, salads, main meals, cakes, juices and can even be made into tea.

The Gardening 4 Kids shop sells carrot seeds so why not start growing some carrots in the garden today?
Happy gardening!