Yellowstone Carrot

Daucus carota  Seeds per pack ~150

Germination: 89% (Feb 2025) Packed for 2025

Origins & History

The Yellowstone Carrot is a striking heirloom variety that traces back to traditional European and American carrot selections. Unlike the common orange types that became dominant in the 19th century, yellow carrots like Yellowstone preserve an older lineage, reflecting the diversity of root colors once widely grown before market standardization. Gardeners prize it for its vibrant hue and adaptability, keeping alive a heritage of colorful root crops.

Appearance & Characteristics

This carrot produces long, tapered roots that can reach 8–10 inches in length. Its smooth skin and golden-yellow flesh are dense, crisp, and notably sweet. Yellowstone carrots are known for their strong coloration that holds well when cooked, making them as visually appealing as they are flavorful. The tops are sturdy, aiding in easy harvesting.

Culinary Uses

Yellowstone carrots shine in the kitchen for both raw and cooked dishes. Their mild, sweet flavor complements fresh salads, slaws, and crudités. When roasted, steamed, or added to soups and stews, they retain their color beautifully. They also lend themselves well to juicing and pickling, adding brightness to any dish.

Growing Tips

This variety thrives in full sun and loose, well-drained soil. Sow directly outdoors, as carrots do not transplant well. Seeds should be sown ¼ inch deep and thinned to 2 inches apart. Best suited for USDA Zones 3–9, Yellowstone carrots appreciate consistent moisture and benefit from mulching to keep soil cool and weed growth down.

Harvesting Guidance

Roots are typically ready for harvest in 70–75 days. Pull when roots have reached mature size, but they may also be enjoyed young for tender, sweet flavor. For extended storage, leave carrots in the ground until just before hard frost or harvest and store in a cool, damp medium such as sand.