Did you know carrots grow underground? Even though we see their green leaves above the soil, the orange part we eat grows hidden beneath the dirt. Carrots are called root vegetables because the root is the part of the plant we eat. Other root vegetables include radishes, beets, and potatoes.

A carrot starts as a tiny seed planted in soft soil. After the seed gets water and sunlight, it begins to sprout. Small green leaves grow above the ground while the root starts growing underneath. As the plant grows, the carrot root becomes thicker and longer.

Carrots grow underground because roots have an important job. Roots collect water and nutrients from the soil to help the plant stay healthy. Carrots also store energy in their roots, which is why the orange part grows larger over time. The soil protects the carrot while it grows.

Carrots grow best in loose, soft soil without many rocks. If the soil is too hard, the carrots may grow crooked or short. Farmers and gardeners often loosen the dirt before planting carrot seeds so the roots have plenty of room to grow straight down.

When carrots are ready, they are pulled up from the ground during harvest time. It can feel like a treasure hunt because you never know exactly how big the carrot is until it comes out of the soil! Carrots are crunchy, sweet, and full of nutrients that help keep our bodies healthy.

Try It!

Plant a few carrot seeds in a garden bed or deep pot with soft soil. Carrots need enough space underground to grow, so choose a container that is at least 10 to 12 inches deep. Place the seeds about one inch apart and lightly cover them with soil.

Keep the soil slightly damp by watering gently every few days. Put the pot or garden in a sunny spot where the carrots can get plenty of sunlight. After a week or two, tiny green sprouts should appear above the soil.

As the carrots grow, be patient! Most carrots take about 2 to 3 months to grow big enough to harvest. While you wait, you may notice the tops getting taller and thicker. When the orange top of the carrot starts peeking out of the soil, it may be ready to pull up.

Ask an adult to help you gently tug on the carrot leaves to harvest your carrots. Brush off the dirt and rinse them with water before eating. Then take a bite and enjoy the crunchy root you grew underground!