When is the best time to plant rutabagas in Iowa?

Question:

When is the best time to plant rutabagas in Iowa?

Answer:

The rutabaga performs best when planted in summer for a fall crop.  Sow seed at a depth of 1/4 to ½ inch from June 15 to July 15 in Iowa.  Rows should be spaced 18 to 24 inches apart.  Thin the planting within a few weeks of germination.  After thinning, rutabaga seedlings should be spaced 6 inches apart. 

‘American Purple Top’ and ‘Laurentian’ are suggested rutabaga varieties for home gardens.  Both varieties produce globe-shaped, light yellow roots with purple tops.  Their flesh is yellow.