FREE: 3000 'Laurentain' Rutabaga Seeds

The listing, 3000 'Laurentain' Rutabaga Seeds has ended.

The rutabaga developed in 17th century Bohemia as a rare cross between a turnip and a cabbage. European farmers of this time began growing the turnip-like root for its value as cattle fodder, but soon its mild, sweet flavor was found agreeable for culinary use. In Sweden, rutabagas became so commonly cultivated that they acquired the name "Swedish turnip." Laurentain comes from the heirloom Purple Top strain of rutabaga.

A cool weather crop, rutabagas thrive when planted very early in the spring or for a fall crop after the hottest part of summer. Gardeners in warmer climates may be able to grow rutabagas throughout the winter. Direct sow the seeds in rich soil and full sun, 1/2" deep in rows 12-24" apart; as the seedlings grow, thin them to 4-6" apart.

Apply mulch to conserve moisture and control weeds. Watch out for pests such as the red and black harlequin bug, which must be removed to prevent damage.

After several hard frosts, pull or dig the rutabagas and cut the tops down to an inch. Store them in a cool place or in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.

Rutabagas must overwinter before producing seed. In warmer climates, a layer of mulch will be sufficient for protection. In colder climates, dig up the rutabagas; cut the tops to 1" and store them in damp sand at 33-40 degrees F until replanting in spring. The roots will send up flowering stalks. When the seed pods begin to turn brown, remove them before they shatter or dig up the entire plant and hang it upside down in a protected location to dry. Thresh the seed from the dry pods by crushing them. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place for up to 4 years.

Detailed Laurentain Rutabaga Info: Brassica napus var. napobrassica. Also known as Swede 'Laurentian'. Biennial. 100 days. 12-24" height. 2-4" spacing. Produces 4-6" yellow skinned rutabagas with dark purple crowns and yellow flesh.