Editing Carrot (section)

== Characteristics ==

* '''Physical Characteristics''': Carrots are characterized by their long, conical taproots, which can vary in color depending on the cultivar, with orange being the most common. The plant has feathery green leaves and can grow up to 3 feet tall when it flowers in its second year<ref>https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carrot</ref><ref>https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/daucus-carota-subsp-sativus</ref>.
* '''Growing Conditions''': Carrots prefer well-drained, loose soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. They thrive in cool temperatures between 60°F and 75°F and require consistent moisture levels. Full sun is essential for optimal growth<ref>https://epicgardening.com/carrot-growth-stages</ref><ref>https://johnnyseeds.com/growers-library/vegetables/carrots/carrot-bed-preparation-spacing-weeding-watering.html</ref>.
* '''Lifecycle''': As a biennial, carrots complete their lifecycle over two years. In the first year, they develop their taproot, and in the second year, they produce flowers and seeds. However, when grown as a vegetable, they are harvested before flowering<ref>https://whenlifegivesyoulemons.blog/tag/life-cycle-of-a-carrot</ref>.

<span id="why-is-this-crop-useful-for-space"></span>