Carrots and Their Origins

Well it is raining. The garden is about 70% planted. So now it is time to discuss an idea I have. I am thinking about starting to do a feature on the origin of different fruits and vegetables. I will start with the lowly carrot

The carrot is believed to have originated in Afghanistan about 5,000 years ago. It was not orange then, but most likely purple. This color was changed by crossing of color variants to obtain the present day dominant color orange. There have been references on other sites to Dutch breeders having created the orange as a patriotic gesture to The House of Orange.

I have planted purple carrots this year purchased at Homestead Organics. I thought the local kids, myself included would get a kick out of them. I have also planted several regular varieties as well. If you like this article let me know and I will continue to put up more on the origin of vegetables and fruits.

http://www.carrotmuseum.co.uk/history.html
http://www.hungrymonster.com/FoodFacts/Food_Facts.cfm?Phrase_vch=Carrots...