Kuroda Long Carrot Seeds — Heirloom | Sweet 8-Inch Asian Carrot, Shade & Heat Tolerant, Exceptional for Juicing | 75 Days
Kuroda Long (Daucus carota) is a classic Asian heirloom carrot prized for its deep orange, sweet 8-inch roots and exceptional adaptability. Unlike most Western varieties that demand full sun and struggle in heat, Kuroda performs best with some shade — one of the few carrots well-suited to warmer gardens and summer growing. Outstanding for juicing. 1g / 700+ seeds per packet. 75 days to maturity.
-
Botanical name: Daucus carota
-
Days to maturity: 75 days
-
Days to germination: 14–21 days
-
Root size: 8 inches long, deep orange
-
Flavor: Sweet — excellent raw, sautéed, or juiced
-
Shade tolerance: Yes — grows best with some shade; more heat tolerant than most varieties
-
Temperature range: 45–75°F
-
Best seasons: Spring and fall
-
Soil: Fertile, loose, well-drained
-
Packet size: 1g / 700+ seeds
-
Sowing depth: ¼–½ inch
-
Spacing: Thin to 2–3 inches; 16 plants per sq ft
-
Light: Full sun to partial shade
-
USDA Zones: 3–9
-
Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated, non-GMO, annual
The Kuroda Type — Asia’s Answer to the Western Carrot
Developed in Japan and widely grown across Asia, the Kuroda type is characterized by broad shoulders, exceptional sweetness, and performance in warmer, more humid conditions than European carrot types. Kuroda Long extends the classic profile to a full 8-inch root, combining climate adaptability and sweetness with a more substantial size suited to Western garden expectations.
Why Shade Tolerance Matters
Most carrot varieties struggle above 75°F, producing bitter or woody roots. Kuroda Long’s shade tolerance extends the growing season into warmer months. In hot weather, plant on the east side of taller crops (tomatoes, corn, trellised beans) to provide natural afternoon shade.
In the Kitchen
-
Juicing: High sugar content and deep orange color produce a rich, sweet juice — pairs well with ginger, apple, and turmeric
-
Sautéed: Slice into coins and sauté in sesame oil with garlic and soy sauce for a Japanese-inspired side
-
Raw snacking: Noticeably sweeter than standard orange varieties straight from the garden
-
Soups & stews: Sweetness adds depth to broths and miso soups; a staple in Japanese nimono
-
Roasting: Halve lengthwise and roast at 400°F with sesame oil and honey
Growing Notes
Direct sow ¼–½ inch deep in fertile, loose, well-drained soil when temperatures are 45–75°F. Thin to 2–3 inches as true leaves establish. Keep soil consistently moist. In warm weather, provide afternoon shade by planting near taller crops. Use a garden fork to loosen soil before harvesting to avoid breaking the 8-inch roots.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Kuroda different from standard orange carrots?
Kuroda is notably sweeter, more tolerant of heat and shade, and has a slightly broader shoulder profile. Developed in Japan for Asian growing conditions, it is particularly well-suited to juicing and fresh eating.
Can Kuroda Long be grown in summer?
Yes — with afternoon shade. Plant where it receives morning sun and afternoon shade, keep soil consistently moist, and sow when temperatures are below 75°F for best germination.
Why use a garden fork to harvest?
The 8-inch roots can break when pulled from firm soil. Insert a fork 3–4 inches from the root and lever gently to loosen the surrounding soil before pulling.
Packed and shipped by Box Garden Seeds LLC — heirloom seeds grown without GMOs, selected for flavor, resilience, and your garden’s success.
