- Type:
- Annual
- USDA hardiness zones:
- -
Also known as Swedes, Winter Turnips, Swedish Turnips, Russian Turnips, Canadian Turnips
This softball-sized root crop is easy to grow and is a favorite for fall and winter dishes (soups), and can be used raw for salads, if desired. Rutabagas and turnips are often confused for one another, but rutabagas have a sweeter flavor.
- Easy
Plant seed 2 inches (5 cm) apart and 1/2 inch (1 cm) deep in rows 18 - 24 inches (45 - 60 cm) apart in early to mid-summer. Thin to 6-inch (15 cm) spacings. Frost improves flavor and quality. Sow seed as soon as you can work the soil in spring for early crops. Waiting until fall will cause the roots to become woody and fibrous. Larger seeds can germinate faster and mature 5 - 6 weeks faster than small seeds.
Do not plant rutabagas or other cole crops in the same location more than once every 3 or 4 years, to reduce disease.
Floating row covers can help to protect from early pests. Long exposure to temperature above 80F (26C) will result in fast growth and root cracking.
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