When to plant Rutabaga in Cloud County, KS
The best window to plant Rutabaga in Cloud County, is April 2–April 23, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits April 16; first frost October 18. A second sowing from August 9 to August 23 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Rutabaga in Cloud County, KS
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.
Cloud County, Kansas is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 16 and the first fall frost is October 18, giving you a growing season of approximately 185 days.
At an elevation of 810 feet, Cloud County receives approximately 22.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Rutabaga to ensure they mature before fall.
Cloud County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Rutabaga
Rutabaga needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Rutabaga Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 0.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 0.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 1.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 2.4" | 1.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 2.7" | 1.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 2.6" | 1.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 2" | 2.3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 1.5" | 2.8" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Nov | — | 0.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 0.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Cloud County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Rutabaga Planting Timeline — Cloud County, KS
Rutabaga Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 2 | Apr 2 – Apr 23 |
| Harvest | June 25 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 |
| Fall Sowing | August 9 | Aug 9 – Aug 23 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
80–100 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
185 days in Cloud County
Growing Tips for Cloud 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
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Rutabaga in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Rutabaga in Cloud County, KS?
Cloud County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 16. Plan your Rutabaga planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Cloud County, KS?
Cloud County, Kansas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 16 and first fall frost is October 18.
When should I plant Rutabaga in Cloud County, KS?
In Cloud County, KS, plant Rutabaga after the last frost (around April 16) and before the first frost (around October 18). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Cloud County, KS for Rutabaga?
Cloud County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Rutabaga grows reliably in zones 2a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Rutabaga grow in Cloud County's climate?
Yes — Rutabaga grows well in Cloud County's temperate climate. Cloud County averages a 185-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 16 and first frost around October 18.
Your Cloud County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Cloud County (Zone 6b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.