Rutabaga

Rutabagas need a long, cool growing period in loose, well-drained soil around pH 6.0-7.0. Add compost and moderate fertilizer based on a soil test, avoiding excess nitrogen that favors leafy tops over roots.

Sun

Full sun to part shade

Water

Even moisture; about 1 in/week including rain

Spacing

6 in

First harvest

90–110 days

Tips

• Sow 1/2 inch deep about 90-110 days before the expected late-fall harvest, thinning to 6 inches apart.
• Keep soil evenly moist with about 1 inch of water weekly to prevent woody or cracked roots.
• Cultivate shallowly and mulch between plants after thinning to suppress weeds.
• Use insect mesh against root maggot flies and flea beetles, and rotate away from other brassicas.
• Lift roots at roughly 3-5 inches across, preferably after cool weather improves sweetness but before soil freezes.