Planting guide · zone 5b
When to plant rutabaga in zone 5b
In zone 5b, the average last spring frost is May 8 and the first fall frost is Oct 8. Here is rutabaga's whole year, counted from those dates.
Jul 5Direct sowFall
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Soil & site
Firm, fertile soil, pH 6.0–6.8. A boron-deficient bed causes brown heart — a dusting of borax per label rates prevents it.
Seedling care
Thin to 6–8 in once seedlings have true leaves; rutabagas need real elbow room to bulb.
Growing notes
The longest-season root in the fall garden — get it in on time. Steady water prevents woody roots.
Harvest
Best after a few frosts, around 3–5 in. Stores for months in a cool cellar or fridge.