American Purple Top Rutabaga Seeds
US$4.50
Description:
- Appearance: This heirloom variety boasts a striking appearance with its large, round roots. The skin is a creamy yellow, while the top portion is a deep, vibrant purple. The flesh is a pale yellow, fine-grained, and moist.
- Size: Roots typically grow to be 4-6 inches in diameter.
- Leaves: The rutabaga has large, blue-green, serrated leaves.
Taste:
- Flavor Profile: American Purple Top Rutabaga offers a mildly sweet and slightly peppery flavor. The flavor intensifies and becomes sweeter after a light frost.
- Texture: The flesh is tender and buttery when cooked.
Grow Zone:
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
When to Plant:
- Cool-Season Crop: Rutabagas thrive in cool weather, making them an ideal fall crop.
- Planting Time: Sow seeds in late spring or early summer, about 90 days before the expected first frost.
- Direct Sowing: Plant seeds directly in the garden, about 1/2 inch deep.
- Thinning: Once seedlings emerge, thin them to 6-8 inches apart.
Soil:
- Well-Drained Soil: Rutabagas prefer well-drained soil to prevent root rot.
- Soil pH: Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
- Soil Preparation: Incorporate plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the soil before planting.
Additional Tips:
- Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering.
- Harvesting: Harvest rutabagas in the fall, after the first frost. The roots will be sweeter and more flavorful after experiencing cold temperatures.
- Storage: Store harvested rutabagas in a cool, dark, and humid place, such as a root cellar or refrigerator.
Enjoy the versatility of American Purple Top Rutabaga in various dishes, from roasted root vegetables to soups and stews.