Home › Rutabaga › Grow in Ontario

Can You Grow Rutabaga in Ontario?

Canada · Canadian Zone 5 · zones 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

Grows well here

Rutabaga is right at home in your zone — it thrives in cool climates and stores through winter.

Plant zones

2a–9b

Ontario last frost

mid-April

Ontario first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

90–105 days

When to plant Rutabagas in Ontario

Direct sow

Apr 15

Harvest

Jul 14 – Jul 29

Dates are approximate, based on Ontario's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Rutabaga

Rutabaga is a cold-climate staple — a cross between turnip and cabbage that stores exceptionally well through winter. Hearty flavor that improves after frost.

Direct sow 90-110 days before first frost — a fall crop is ideal. Thin to 6-8 inches. Harvest after several frosts for best flavor. Stores well in root cellar or refrigerator for months.

Full rutabaga growing guide →

Gardening in Ontario

Ontario spans several climate zones. Northern Ontario is Zone 3-4 with short seasons; southern Ontario is Zone 5-7 with long productive seasons. The Niagara Peninsula is one of Canada's premier fruit-growing regions.