Early and staggered seeded crops for productivity and storage

I picked rutabaga as an example of an early seeded crop that can have a staggered planting for storage.

Growers seed as early as the soil can be worked for a mature crop for the early market. According to Veseys “For the main storage crop, plant in late June or early July, so that roots can develop in the cooler weather. Late plantings are less susceptible to root maggot damage. For an extra early crop, start indoors in April for transplanting in May.”

Other crops like spinach, kale, onions and radish can also be planted early. Check seeding dates and whether staggered planting is to your advantage, to extend harvest and shelf-life.

Editor’s tip: In fall rutabagas can be left in the ground until right before it freezes. The sweet flavour continues to develop with light frosts.

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