Beginner

Rutabaga

Brassica napus var. napobrassica

Family: Brassicaceae

Rutabagas are large, sweet root vegetables that are a cross between cabbage and turnip. With purple-topped yellow flesh, they're sweeter than turnips and excellent for storage. Also called "swedes" or "Swedish turnips."

Written by SuNutri Editorial Team, Master Gardeners

Days to Harvest

85-100 days

Sun Needs

Full Sun (6+ hours)

Water Needs

moderate

Germination Temp

65°F optimal

Add to Planting Calendar Seed Starting Guide

Seed Starting

Start Indoors

0 weeks before last frost

Germination

4-10 days

Seed Depth

1/2 inch

Light to Germinate

💡 Tip: Direct sow in early to mid-summer for fall harvest. Rutabagas need 90+ days and develop best flavor after frost.

Growing Conditions

Soil Type

Loose, well-draining soil rich in organic matter

pH Range

6 - 7.5

Spacing

6-8 inches between plants, 18-24 inches between rows

Companion Plants

✓ Peas✓ Beans✓ Onions

⚠️ Avoid planting near:

✗ Other brassicas✗ Strawberries

History & Nutrition

History

Rutabagas likely originated in Bohemia (Czech Republic) in the 17th century as a natural cross between cabbage and turnip. They became a staple in Scandinavian countries and were brought to North America by European immigrants.

Nutritional Benefits

✓High in Vitamin C
✓Good source of fiber
✓Contains potassium

Climate & Temperature

Optimal Growing Temp

50°F - 65°F

Rutabagas need a long, cool growing season. Frost improves flavor dramatically.

Survival Range

20°F - 80°F

Can survive these temperatures

very hardy

cool Season

Frost Note: Very frost tolerant—survives hard frosts to 20°F. Frost is essential for sweetness.

Best USDA Zones

Zone 3Zone 4Zone 5Zone 6Zone 7

Humidity

50-70%

Moderate humidity.

Plant Size & Growth

Height

15-20 inches

Spread

8-10 inches

Growth Habit

rosette

biennialRoot Depth: Large globe roots 4-6 inches diameter.

Growth Stages

Germination

4-10 days

Seeds germinate readily in cool soil.

Seedling Stage

Duration: 3-4 weeks

True leaves: Leaves similar to cabbage

Transplant ready: Can transplant or direct sow.

Vegetative Growth

Duration: 12-16 weeks

Long growing season. Roots size up in fall.

Harvest Maturity

Timing: 90-120 days

Shoulders 3-5 inches diameter
Firm, heavy roots
Best after frost

Expected Yield

Per Plant

1 large root (1-3 lbs)

Per Square Foot

4 rutabagas (6-inch spacing)

Harvest Frequency

Single harvest

Factors Affecting Yield

•Long season
•Frost exposure
•Consistent moisture

Watering Guide

Seedling Stage

Keep moist

Established Plants

1-1.5 inches per week

During Fruiting

Consistent moisture for tender roots

Preferred Method

Drip irrigation or soaker hoses.

⚠️ Critical Watering Periods

• Root sizing phase

Pro Tips

Consistent moisture prevents woodiness

Fertilizing Guide

moderate feederRecommended: Balanced (10-10-10)

Feeding Schedule

Soil prep

Compost

Once

Mid-season

Side-dress

Once at 6-8 weeks

Organic Options

CompostWell-rotted manure

Work compost into soil; side-dress mid-season.

Container Growing

✗ Not ideal for containers

Minimum Size

Not recommended—roots too large

Recommended Size

Raised beds

Depth Required

12+ inches

Container Tips

Better in ground or raised beds

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between rutabaga and turnip?

Rutabagas are larger, sweeter, and denser with yellow flesh. They take longer to mature (90-120 days vs 30-60) and store better. Rutabagas are a cross between cabbage and turnip.