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 across climates. Unlike most Western carrot varieties that demand full sun and struggle in heat, Kuroda performs best with some shade — making it one of the few carrot varieties well-suited to warmer gardens and summer growing. Hardy in both spring and fall, tolerant of temperatures between 45–75°F, and particularly outstanding for juicing. 1 g / 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: 1 g / 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

The Kuroda carrot type was developed in Japan and is widely grown across Asia, where it has been selected for performance in warmer, more humid conditions than the cool, dry climates that favor European carrot types. The Kuroda type is characterized by broad shoulders, a slightly shorter and stockier profile than Imperator types, and exceptional sweetness — a result of selection for flavor in culinary traditions where the carrot is a featured ingredient rather than a background vegetable. Kuroda Long extends the classic Kuroda profile to a full 8-inch root, combining the type’s climate adaptability and sweetness with a more substantial root size suited to Western garden expectations.

Why Shade Tolerance Matters

Most carrot varieties are bred for cool, full-sun conditions and struggle when temperatures rise above 75°F — producing bitter, woody roots or bolting prematurely. Kuroda Long’s shade tolerance means it can be grown in spots that receive afternoon shade, extending the growing season into warmer months and making it one of the most practical carrot varieties for gardeners in warmer climates or those with partially shaded beds. In hot weather, plant on the east side of taller crops (tomatoes, corn, trellised beans) to provide natural afternoon shade.

In the Kitchen

• Juicing: The standout use — the high sugar content and deep orange color produce a rich, sweet carrot juice; pairs exceptionally well with ginger, apple, and turmeric
• Sautéed: Slice into coins or batons and sauté in sesame oil with garlic and a splash of soy sauce for a simple Japanese-inspired side
• Raw snacking: Sweet, crisp, and satisfying straight from the garden; the flavor is noticeably sweeter than standard orange varieties
• Soups & stews: The sweetness adds depth to broths and miso soups; a staple in Japanese nimono (simmered dishes)
• Roasting: Halve lengthwise and roast at 400°F with sesame oil and honey; the sweetness concentrates beautifully
• Spiced dishes: The natural sweetness pairs well with warm spices — cumin, coriander, ginger, and cardamom

Growing Notes

Plant in spring or fall when temperatures are between 45–75°F. Direct sow ¼–½ inch deep in fertile, loose, well-drained soil. Thin to 2–3 inches apart as true leaves establish. Water consistently — keep soil moist but not waterlogged. In warm weather, provide afternoon shade by planting near taller crops. Harvest at 75 days — use a garden fork to loosen soil around each root before pulling to avoid breaking the 8-inch roots. Wash and store in cool conditions after harvest.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is Kuroda different from standard orange carrots?

Kuroda was developed in Japan for Asian growing conditions and culinary traditions. It is notably sweeter than most Western varieties, more tolerant of heat and shade, and has a slightly broader shoulder profile. The flavor is milder and sweeter raw, making it particularly well-suited to juicing and fresh eating.

Can Kuroda Long be grown in summer?

Yes — with afternoon shade. Most carrot varieties fail in summer heat, but Kuroda’s shade tolerance allows it to be grown in warmer conditions than standard varieties. 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 be difficult to pull cleanly from firm soil without breaking. Insert a garden fork 3–4 inches from the root and lever gently to loosen the surrounding soil before pulling. This preserves the full root length and avoids snapping the carrot mid-root.

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