When to Plant Rutabaga in Freeborn County, MN
Rutabagas are a cross between turnips and cabbage, producing large yellow-fleshed roots with a sweet, mild flavor. They are excellent mashed, roasted, or in stews.
Freeborn County, Minnesota is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 1 and the first fall frost is October 7, giving you a growing season of approximately 159 days.
At an elevation of 1,253 feet, Freeborn County receives approximately 34.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Rutabaga to ensure they mature before fall.
Freeborn County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.8-7.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Rutabaga Planting Timeline — Freeborn County, MN
Rutabaga Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 24 | Apr 24 – May 15 |
| Fall Sowing | July 15 | Jul 15 – Jul 29 |
| Harvest | July 17 | Jul 17 – Aug 21 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
80–100 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 4b
Growing Season
159 days
Growing Tips for Freeborn County
Direct sow in early summer for fall harvest. Thin seedlings to 6-8 inches apart. Flavor improves significantly after a few light frosts.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Rutabaga in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Rutabaga in Freeborn County, MN?
Freeborn County is in Zone 4b with an average last frost of May 1. Plan your Rutabaga planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Freeborn County, MN?
Freeborn County, Minnesota is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 1 and first fall frost is October 7.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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