What are the essential soil requirements for how to grow rutabagas?
Written by
Paul Reynolds
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Growing rutabagas requires an attentive eye to soil chemistry and seasonal rhythms. These resilient roots thrive where other crops might not and offer rewards of sweetened flesh in frost and nutrient-dense greens. I had my first successful harvest by striking a balance of three components: pH, boron levels, and drainage.
pH Balance
- 6.0-7.0 pH range optimizes nutrient absorption
- Test soil 6 weeks before planting
- Add lime if below 6.0, sulfur if above 7.0
Boron Requirements
- Prevents hollow heart disorder
- Apply 1 tsp borax per 10 sq ft
- Mix with compost for slow release
Drainage Solutions
- Raised beds for clay soils
- Add perlite or coarse sand
- Avoid waterlogged conditions
Soil texture dictates how amending will be done. In my garden in the Midwest which is mostly clay, I found the ideal conditions by mixing 40% native soil, 30% compost, and 30% builder's sand. This combination grew roots that were twice the size compared to trials without amendment to the soil.
The timeliness of nutrient applications cannot be overemphasized. When it comes to fertilizing seedlings, I provide periodic applications of fish emulsion (5-1-1) every two weeks, before switching to bone meal (3-15-0) when seedlings form functional roots. In my trials, this approach resulted in yield increases of 40% greater than either fertilizer used alone.
Use the first knuckle method to gauge moisture, where if the soil is dry at the second knuckle, then water deeply. Rutabagas will start to develop cracked roots when overwatered. If you underwater them, they will stunt at about three inches in diameter. My drip system maintains perfect moisture levels so I don't have to guess.
Read the full article: How to Grow Rutabagas: Expert Guide for Home Gardeners
