In a very GENERAL description, 10:1 turndown means that a 60 hz motor can be apperated at 1/10 speed (6hz) without damage...it usually means you will get constant torque to that speed. 6:1 would equate to 1/6 speed (10hz)
This does NOT mean that the motor can't be run slower than that (escpecially if the load is much less than the motor is capable of).
Beware that a 2hp 60hz motor will NOT generate 2hp when operated at 10hz! so design accordingly.