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 cultivated for generations for one defining quality: uniformity. Smooth, cylindrical, 4–6 inch bright orange roots with indistinct cores — no tough, pale center — deliver clean, sweet flavor and exceptional presentation for bunching and fresh market. The variety’s forcing ability makes it one of the best choices for cold frame and greenhouse production, where it can be harvested as baby carrots in as few as 50 days. 50–70 days to full maturity.

• 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
• Type: Nantes-style — blunt tip, smooth skin
• Forcing ability: Excellent — cold frames and greenhouses
• Container friendly: Yes — compact root size ideal for pots and planters
• Packet size: 1 g / ~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. Orange was a mutant variation that Dutch growers deliberately isolated and cultivated as a separate cultivar — some historians suggest as a tribute to the House of Orange. Amsterdam, developed in the Netherlands, is a direct descendant of this tradition: a variety bred for the uniform, bright orange color and clean flavor that define the modern carrot. Growing Amsterdam is growing a piece of that history.

Why the Indistinct Core Matters

Most carrot varieties have a visible pale core — the xylem tissue at the center of the root — which is tougher and less flavorful than the surrounding flesh. Amsterdam was selected specifically for an indistinct core, meaning the color, texture, and flavor are consistent from skin to center. This makes it exceptional for fresh eating, juicing, and any preparation where the carrot is eaten raw or lightly cooked.

In the Kitchen

• Fresh bunching: The classic use — wash, trim tops to 2 inches, and sell or serve as a fresh bunch; the uniform size and bright color make a beautiful market presentation
• Crudités & snacking: The sweet, clean flavor and crisp texture are ideal raw; no peeling needed if scrubbed well
• Juicing: The indistinct core means consistent flavor and color throughout — excellent for fresh carrot juice
• Roasting: Halve lengthwise and roast with olive oil and honey; the uniform size ensures even cooking
• Glazed carrots: The sweet flavor pairs perfectly with butter, brown sugar, and thyme
• 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 — compacted soil causes forked and stunted roots. Sow 2–3 seeds per inch and thin to 2 inches apart as true leaves establish. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers, which cause growth abnormalities (forking, hairy roots). Keep soil consistently moist until germination (14–21 days). For cold frame or greenhouse forcing, sow in late winter for extra-early spring harvest. For a season-long supply, 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 refers to growing carrots in a protected environment — cold frame, greenhouse, or poly tunnel — to produce an early harvest before outdoor conditions allow. Amsterdam Forcing 2 was specifically selected for this use, germinating and developing reliably in cooler conditions than most carrot varieties.

Why avoid nitrogen fertilizer with carrots?

High nitrogen promotes leafy top growth at the expense of root development and can cause forking, excessive root hair, and misshapen roots. Use a balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer, or simply amend with well-aged compost before sowing rather than fertilizing during the growing season.

Can Amsterdam carrots be grown in containers?

Yes — the 4–6 inch root length makes Amsterdam one of the best carrot varieties for container growing. Use a pot or planter at least 12 inches deep with loose, well-draining potting mix. Water consistently as containers dry out faster than garden beds.

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