Amsterdam Carrot Seeds — Heirloom | Nantes-Type Baby Bunch Carrot, Uniform 4–6 Inch Bright Orange Roots, Indistinct Core | 50–70 Days

Amsterdam (Daucus carota), also known as Amsterdam Forcing 2, is a European heirloom Nantes-type carrot bred for uniformity. Smooth, cylindrical, 4–6 inch bright orange roots with indistinct cores deliver clean, sweet flavor and exceptional presentation for bunching and fresh market. Excellent for cold frame and greenhouse forcing — harvestable as baby carrots in as few as 50 days. 1g / ~700+ seeds per packet.

• Botanical name: Daucus carota
• Also known as: Amsterdam Forcing 2
• Days to maturity: 50–70 days
• Days to germination: 14–21 days
• Root size: 4–6 inches, uniform, cylindrical
• Root color: Bright orange
• Core: Indistinct — clean eating quality throughout
• Forcing ability: Excellent — cold frames and greenhouses
• Container friendly: Yes — compact root size ideal for pots and planters
• Packet size: 1g / ~700+ seeds
• Sowing depth: ¼ inch
• Spacing: Thin to 2 inches apart; 16 plants per sq ft
• Light: Full sun
• USDA Zones: 3–9
• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated, non-GMO, biennial grown as annual

The Dutch Orange Carrot — A Brief History

Before the Dutch influence of the 16th century, the world’s carrot crop was predominantly purple. Dutch growers deliberately isolated and cultivated the orange mutation — some historians suggest as a tribute to the House of Orange. Amsterdam is a direct descendant of this tradition: bred for the uniform bright orange color and clean flavor that define the modern carrot.

Why the Indistinct Core Matters

Most carrot varieties have a visible pale core that is tougher and less flavorful than the surrounding flesh. Amsterdam was selected for an indistinct core — consistent color, texture, and flavor from skin to center — making it exceptional for fresh eating, juicing, and raw preparations.

In the Kitchen

• Fresh bunching: Wash, trim tops to 2 inches, and serve or sell as a fresh bunch — uniform size and bright color make a beautiful market presentation
• Crudités & snacking: Sweet, clean flavor and crisp texture; no peeling needed if scrubbed well
• Juicing: Consistent flavor and color throughout — excellent for fresh carrot juice
• Roasting: Halve lengthwise with olive oil and honey; uniform size ensures even cooking
• Pickling: Slice into coins or sticks and quick-pickle in rice vinegar and sugar

Growing Notes

Direct sow ¼ inch deep in very loose, well-tilled, well-drained soil. Thin to 2 inches as true leaves establish. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers. Keep soil consistently moist until germination (14–21 days). For cold frame forcing, sow in late winter for extra-early spring harvest. Succession sow every 2–3 weeks through spring and again in late summer for a fall crop.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “forcing” mean for carrots?

Forcing means growing carrots in a protected environment — cold frame, greenhouse, or poly tunnel — for an early harvest before outdoor conditions allow. Amsterdam Forcing 2 was specifically selected for reliable germination and development in cooler conditions.

Why avoid nitrogen fertilizer with carrots?

High nitrogen promotes leafy top growth at the expense of root development, causing forking, excessive root hair, and misshapen roots. Use balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer, or amend with well-aged compost before sowing.

Can Amsterdam carrots be grown in containers?

Yes — the 4–6 inch root length makes Amsterdam one of the best carrot varieties for containers. Use a pot at least 12 inches deep with loose, well-draining potting mix and water consistently.

Packed and shipped by Box Garden Seeds LLC — heirloom seeds grown without GMOs, selected for flavor, resilience, and your garden’s success.