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Knowledge/Crops/Rutabaga
Vegetables

Rutabaga

Brassica napus var. napobrassica

Rutabaga, also known as swede or yellow turnip, is a root vegetable that is a cross between a cabbage and a turnip. It has a round, bulbous shape with a yellow or purple skin and a creamy yellow flesh. Rutabagas are rich in vitamins C and E, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to the diet. They are commonly used in soups, stews, and as a mashed vegetable side dish.

Calculate System for Rutabaga
400.00–600.00mm
Water Need
120 days
Season
30.00–60.00cm
Root Depth
25,000 kg/ha
Yield
20,000
Plants/ha

Growth Stages

Season: Mar – Aug (120 days)

Initial
Kc 0.400
30 days
Development
Kc 0.700
40 days
Mid-Season
Kc 1.000
60 days
Late
Kc 0.800
30 days

Rutabagas are biennial plants typically grown as annuals. They prefer cooler temperatures and can be harvested after the first frost, which can enhance their sweetness. Varieties include 'American Purple Top' and 'Laurentian'.

Water Requirements

Season Total: 400.00600.00 mm
Water Stress Sensitivity: High
Salt Tolerance: Moderate
Water Productivity: 15.500 kg/m³

Recommended Methods

Drip Irrigation90.00%Fixed Sprinkler70.00%

Soil Compatibility

Optimal pH range: 6.0 – 7.5

Sandy Loam
AWC100.00mm/m
Drainagegood
Drainage: Well-drained soils preferred
Organic Matter: 2.00%
Soil should be prepared with adequate organic matter to improve fertility and structure. Regular soil testing is recommended to maintain pH and nutrient levels.

Climate Compatibility

Temperature range: 15.0°C – 30.0°C

Temperate Continental
ETo: 1.006.00 mm/day
Temp: -20.0°C – 30.0°C
Frost: high
Mediterranean
ETo: 3.007.00 mm/day
Temp: 5.0°C – 35.0°C
Frost: low
Frost Tolerance: Low frost tolerance
Heat Tolerance: Moderate heat tolerance
Rutabagas are best grown in regions with a temperate climate. They can tolerate light frost, which can improve flavor, but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures should be avoided.

Planting Layout

100.00cm
Row Spacing
50.00cm
Plant Spacing
20,000
Plants per ha

Nutrient Requirements (kg/ha)

Nitrogen (N)150 kg/ha
Phosphorus (P)60 kg/ha
Potassium (K)180 kg/ha
40
Calcium (Ca) kg/ha
25
Magnesium (Mg) kg/ha
20
Sulfur (S) kg/ha
Schedule: Apply nitrogen in 3 splits during growing season
Organic Matter: 2-3% organic matter recommended

Yield Information

25,000
kg/ha
2.500
kg/plant
0.450
Harvest Index
Quality Factors: Size, color, sugar content

Design Your Rutabaga Irrigation System

Use our free calculators to plan water requirements, spacing, and system costs for your Rutabaga field.

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Related Guides

Rutabaga: A Guide to Growing and Irrigating Economically

Rutabaga, also known as swede or Swedish turnip, is a root vegetable that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is a popular crop in many regions due to its versatility, nutritional value and economic benefits. In this article, we will explore how to grow and irrigate rutabaga efficiently, focusing on sustainable and…

Read Guide
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