Carrots are one of the most popular root vegetables and have been cultivated for centuries. Carrots have a long and interesting history, and have been enjoyed in many different cuisines around the world. But have you ever wondered where carrot seeds come from?
Carrot seeds are the product of the cross breeding of two flowers — the wild carrot, also known as Queen Anne’s Lace, and the domestic carrot. It is believed that wild carrots were first domesticated in Central Asia and made their way to Europe around 800 AD. From there, Dutch traders brought them to North America where they gained popularity in gardens.
Carrots are a type of flowering biennial, meaning they produce flowers after two years of growth. During the first year of growth, the carrots make food reserves in the roots and then in the second year they begin to sprout and flower.
Carrots produce small, white flowers, and the small, oblong seeds are found in their seed heads once the flowers bloom and die. Carrot flowers are pollinated by a variety of insects, such as bees, butterflies and flies. The seeds, which are dormant when they first fall from the plant, need to be exposed to the sun and air in order to become viable.
Once collected, carrot seeds must be stored properly in order to remain viable for future planting. Carrot seeds can last for several years if stored in a cool, dry place. To maximize their life expectancy, the seeds should be stored in an airtight container or an envelope.
If you want to grow your own carrots from seed, it’s important to note that carrot seeds prefer loose, crumbly soil with plenty of organic matter. The best time to sow carrot seeds is between the last frost date and late spring (early June). Additionally, carrot seeds are a very slow-germinating plant and can take anywhere from two weeks to two months to germinate and sprout.
Knowing where carrot seeds come from, how they’re produced and stored, and how to properly grow them will help ensure a successful carrot harvest. With the proper care and attention, you can enjoy a great crop of nutritious and tasty carrots for years to come.