As fall approaches, most of us think of pumpkins as the orange vegetable of the season, but let’s not forget carrots.  Their bright color means they’re high in beta carotene, an antioxidant and precursor to Vitamin A, which helps eyesight.  They’re also full of calcium pectate, which can lower “bad” cholesterol levels.

Wisconsin ranks third in carrot production and they are currently dotting fields across the state. If you see a field of carrots you should know that farmers plant almost a half million seeds on every acre!  These seeds are so small that is takes 3,000 of them to make a pound, which is odd because carrots can grow to be over a foot long depending on the variety.  An average acre will provide about 20 tons of carrots each year.

While we eat carrots for their tasty, crunchy roots; this vegetable was originally grown for of its aromatic leaves and seeds. In fact carrots are related to herbs like parsley, fennel, dill and cumin.  While enjoying your locally-grown carrots, don’t forget to include other great vegetables like sweet corn, broccoli, cauliflower, beets, and potatoes.  

These are just a sample of the tastes that await you!  This is a wonderful time to enjoy Wisconsin vegetables, enjoy this year’s bounty from a farmer’s market, roadside stand or even at a local festival.  Make a connection with freshly picked produce that radiates colors and nutrients, illuminating with freshness right here in Wisconsin.  

"Locally produced vegetables are filled with nutrients and great taste because they get from the farm to you faster,” notes Ashley Huibregtse, Wisconsin’s 61^st Alice in Dairyland.  “Buying Wisconsin-grown products supports Wisconsin agriculture and local farmers, producers, communities and economies.”

Click Here to search for carrots and other vegetables that are available across the state.