Description of Rutabagas
Rutabagas, Brassica napus var. napobrassica, are a root vegetable that is a cross between a turnip and cabbage (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2014). There are many varieties of rutabagas, but the most vigorous is the Thomson Laurentian variety (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada). Rutabagas are a cool season crop meaning it grows best at lower temperatures usually between 15°C and 20°C (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2014). However, rutabagas are frost tolerant and can survive temperatures as low as -3°C (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2014). Due to this temperature range, rutabagas would be best suited for the hills region in Nepal as the average temperature during the growing season can range between 13°C to 27°C (Pariyar, 1999). While growing, weed management is critical to eliminate competition. Also, application of fertilizers and pesticides can greatly benefit the crop’s overall yield (FAA, 2016). Brown Heart is a common problem in growing rutabagas and is caused by boron deficiency which results in brown spots on the root (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2014). These brown spots turn into rot overtime, reducing storage length, and can be prevented by adding boron fertilizers to the soil (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2014). After approximately 85 days, the Thomson Laurentian variety reaches maturity (NORSECO, 2016). The rutabagas can then be harvested either by hand or with a mechanical harvester (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2014). Many Nepalese farmers do not have access to mechanical harvesters, therefore they would be harvesting the rutabagas by hand. Once harvested the rutabagas can store up to nine months if stored in an environment that is high in humidity (95%), and is set at a low temperature (0°C) (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2014; FAA, 2016).
Nutrition
Uses of Rutabaga
Rutabagas are used as food source for both humans and animals (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2014). For human consumption, rutabagas can be cooked in casseroles, cut as fries, mashed, and put in soups and stews (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2014). Overall, rutabagas are considered by many to be a delicious vegetable that can be a healthy food option as seen above (Table 1.). Along with human consumption, rutabagas are also used for animals (Benedict, Miles & Johnson, 2013). Domesticated animals can graze on the leaves and stems of rutabagas providing them with a healthy food source that is high in protein and other nutrients (Benedict et al., 2013). When rutabagas are used as animal feed, it must be gradually introduced into the animal’s diet since it is so high in protein (Benedict et al., 2013). The animal will not be able digest it fully and therefore could get sick (Benedict et al., 2013). If introduced gradually, and consumed along with other feeds to receive other important nutrients, rutabagas are an excellent alternate food source for animals. Since both humans and animals consume this vegetable, there are opportunities for the rutabagas to be sold in markets to earn profit.