← Crop Library

Rutabaga

American Purple Top

Brassicaceae

Spacing4 per sq ft
Days to Harvest90d
Expected Yield4 rutabagas

Rutabaga

No photo yet · Tap Generate to create one

AI-generated botanical watercolor illustration of Rutabaga.

Text me when to plant rutabaga

Get a month-by-month rutabaga growing summary texted to your phone — sow windows, harvest timing, and what to do this week. No app, no account.

We'll text you a one-time summary. Standard message rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out.

Variety History

American Purple Top was developed in the 19th century, selected for its purple crown, yellow flesh, and excellent storage qualities. Rutabagas are a cross between cabbage and turnip, first recorded in the 1600s.

Regional Context

Rutabagas (called "swedes" in the UK and "neeps" in Scotland) are a quintessential northern crop. The PNW is perfect for them — long cool autumn produces large, sweet roots. American Purple Top is the standard variety. Sow in early July on Bainbridge, harvest through November. They are bulletproof in our climate.

Growing Technique

Direct sow in late June to early July for fall harvest — rutabagas need a long cool season (90 days). Sow 1/2" deep, 4 seeds per sq ft. Thin to 6-8" apart. They are heavy feeders — work compost into the bed before planting. Keep evenly moist; drought stress causes woody roots. Harvest when roots are 4-6" across, typically October-November. Frost improves sweetness dramatically. Store in cool, humid conditions (root cellar ideal) — they keep for months.

Watch For

  • Flea beetles on young leaves — floating row cover for first month. Root maggots — rotate crops, avoid planting where brassicas grew the previous year. Clubroot (swollen, distorted roots) in acidic soil — maintain pH above 6.5. Aphids on leaves in fall — spray with water.

Recipes