American Purple Top Rutabaga Growing Guide

American Purple Top Rutabaga (Brassica napus) is a hardy, cool-season root vegetable known for its large, round shape, purple-tinged top, and sweet, nutty flavor. Rutabagas are often used in stews, soups, and casseroles, and they can be roasted, mashed, or eaten raw. This vegetable is a favorite for winter storage and provides a reliable source of nutrition during the colder months.

     

Planting American Purple Top Rutabaga

Sunlight: Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Rutabagas grow best in cooler temperatures, so a spot with some afternoon shade can be beneficial in warmer climates.

Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Rutabagas thrive in loose, loamy soil rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting. Avoid rocky or compacted soil, which can cause misshapen roots.

When to Plant: American Purple Top Rutabagas are cool-season crops that can be planted in late summer for a fall harvest. In colder climates, they can be sown in early summer. Sow seeds directly in the garden 10-12 weeks before the first expected frost date in your area.

Direct Sowing: Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 2-4 inches apart in rows spaced 12-18 inches apart. For a continuous harvest, sow seeds every 2-3 weeks. Thin seedlings to 6-8 inches apart once they are a few inches tall to allow enough space for the roots to develop.

 

Caring for American Purple Top Rutabaga

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Rutabagas need regular watering, especially during dry periods, to ensure even moisture. Watering deeply encourages proper root development. Avoid letting the soil dry out, as this can cause the roots to become tough or woody.

Fertilization: Rutabagas benefit from a nutrient-rich soil but do not require heavy fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost at planting time. If growth appears slow or leaves are pale, side-dress with compost or a balanced fertilizer.

Mulching and Weeding: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil temperature consistent. Mulch also helps prevent soil from splashing onto the leaves, which can reduce the risk of disease. Hand-pull weeds carefully to avoid disturbing the shallow roots of the rutabagas.

Pest and Disease Management: Rutabagas can be susceptible to pests such as aphids, flea beetles, and root maggots. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil, diatomaceous earth, or floating row covers to protect young plants. Practice crop rotation and ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew and clubroot.

 

Harvesting American Purple Top Rutabaga

When to Harvest: American Purple Top Rutabagas are typically ready to harvest 90-120 days after planting. Harvest when the roots are 3-5 inches in diameter for the best flavor and texture. Smaller rutabagas are more tender and have a milder flavor.

How to Harvest: Loosen the soil around the roots with a garden fork or trowel before gently pulling the rutabagas out of the ground. Be careful not to damage the roots during harvesting. Rutabaga greens can also be harvested when they are young and tender, either by cutting them from the plant or pulling up the entire plant.

 

Storing and Using American Purple Top Rutabaga

Storing Fresh Rutabagas: Freshly harvested rutabagas can be stored in a cool, dark place like a root cellar for several months. Trim the greens off the rutabagas to prevent moisture loss before storing them in a plastic bag or container. Rutabagas can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month.

Culinary Uses: American Purple Top Rutabagas are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. They can be roasted, boiled, mashed, or added to soups and stews. Rutabagas can also be eaten raw, grated into salads, or sliced into sticks for snacking. Their sweet, nutty flavor makes them a great addition to both savory and sweet dishes.

 

Growing Tips

Companion Planting: Plant rutabagas alongside peas, beans, and radishes. Avoid planting near other brassicas (cabbage family), as they can attract similar pests.

Succession Planting: For a continuous harvest, sow seeds every 2-3 weeks throughout the growing season. This ensures a steady supply of fresh rutabagas from late summer through fall.

Temperature Management: Rutabagas thrive in cooler temperatures and develop the best flavor when grown in the fall. They can tolerate light frost, which can actually enhance their sweetness.

Soil Preparation: Rutabagas prefer rich, well-drained soil. Before planting, work in plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to provide essential nutrients and improve soil structure.

 

Growing American Purple Top Rutabagas in your garden ensures a steady supply of nutritious, flavorful root vegetables perfect for a variety of dishes. Enjoy the sweet, nutty taste and versatility of this easy-to-grow, cool-season crop!