Purple Rutabaga Seeds

Purple Rutabaga

Kohlrabi is a root with a sweet flavor (and sometimes with a spicy touch), which comes from the cruciferous family, a mixture of cabbage and turnip.

 This root vegetable is believed to have originated in Bohemia (region of the Czech Republic) in the 17th century, as a hybrid between turnip and wild cabbage.

Rutabagas are an important source of vegetable oil. The oil from its seed is used in the manufacture of lubricants, greases, lacquers, varnishes, soaps, resins, nylon, plastics, insect repellents, stabilizers and pharmaceutical products.

 It is recommended to consume it for people with cardiovascular problems, due to its low sodium content and high potassium, magnesium and phosphorus content. It is also a diuretic, and has a lot of fiber.

It is considered a healthy alternative to potatoes, since it does not contain as many carbohydrates, but it does provide significant amounts of minerals, vitamins and organic compounds that are beneficial for human health.

Sowing : Bury the seed 1 to 1.5 cm, at a distance of about 25 mm (1 inch) away. As they germinate, separate the grown seedlings by cutting them back about 2 inches (5 cm), so there will be more room for larger varieties.

They are very resistant to cold and can last all winter without any protection.

Cultivation : These are cool weather crops that will be ideal for spring and fall planting.

Growing rutabagas during the hot summer months will increase their growth.

Rutabagas should be planted in an area of ​​full sun or partial shade and loose, well-drained soil. Remove all rock from the soil. Add organic matter to the soil before planting.

Make sure the turnips get plenty of sunlight, otherwise they will be tall but very small in the root section.

Harvest:

Turnips need about two months to go from seed to root crop, depending on the variety.

Harvest turnip greens as needed when they are at least 4 inches tall, and pull the roots out of the ground when they are 1 to 3 inches in diameter. It is not recommended to let it grow any longer since it would no longer be edible.

To store turnips, remove all but 1/2 inch of the stems and place the roots in a cool, dark area.

This vegetable lasts three months if kept in a cool, humid place, but they can be frozen to make them last longer.