How to Plant Rutabagas from Seeds

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Planting Instructions for Rutabaga Seeds

  1. Location: Choose a sunny site with loose, well-drained, fertile soil. Rutabagas prefer cool weather and grow best in climates with mild summers.
  2. When to Plant:
    • Fall Crop (Recommended): Sow Todd’s Seeds Rutabaga seeds 10–12 weeks before the first expected fall frost.
    • Spring Crop: Sow 2–4 weeks before the last expected frost, but note that warm weather may cause bolting or poor root development.
  3. Soil Prep: Loosen soil to at least 12 inches deep. Mix in compost or aged manure. Ideal pH is 6.0–7.0.
  4. Sowing Depth: Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep.
  5. Spacing: Sow seeds 1 inch apart in rows 18–24 inches apart. Thin to 6–8 inches apart once seedlings are 3–4 inches tall.
  6. Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during root development. Avoid waterlogging.
  7. Care: Mulch to retain moisture and control weeds. Side-dress with a balanced fertilizer 4–6 weeks after planting if needed.
  8. Harvest: Harvest when roots are 3–5 inches in diameter, usually 80–100 days after sowing. Rutabagas taste best after a light frost. Lift carefully and store in a cool, humid place or refrigerate.
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