How To Grow Arugula: A Beginner’s Guide to Spicy Greens
Arugula is grown through direct sowing or transplanting in well-drained soil, with consistent moisture, and harvested frequently, approximately 4-6 weeks after planting, for the best flavor.
Understanding Arugula: A Peppery Delight
Arugula, also known as rocket, is a fast-growing, leafy green that adds a distinctive peppery bite to salads, pizzas, and countless other dishes. Its ease of cultivation makes it a popular choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Understanding the basics of arugula cultivation ensures a bountiful harvest and a flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire.
The Benefits of Growing Your Own Arugula
Why bother growing arugula when you can buy it at the store? The answer lies in the numerous benefits:
- Superior Flavor: Homegrown arugula possesses a more intense and nuanced flavor than store-bought varieties. You can also choose from a wider range of cultivars with varying degrees of spiciness.
- Freshness and Nutrition: Arugula wilts quickly after harvesting. Growing your own ensures you’re enjoying the freshest, most nutritious leaves possible. Arugula is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals.
- Cost Savings: Arugula seeds are inexpensive, and a single planting can yield multiple harvests.
- Pest Control: Arugula is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, making it an easy crop to grow organically.
- Year-Round Growth (in some climates): With proper planning and protection, arugula can be grown throughout the year in many regions.
Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Arugula
Here’s a detailed guide to successfully cultivating arugula in your garden or container:
Choosing the Right Variety: Select a variety that suits your taste and climate. Some popular choices include ‘Astro’, ‘Sylvetta’, and ‘Wasabi’. Consider disease resistance if that’s a local concern.
Preparing the Soil: Arugula thrives in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility and drainage.
Planting Arugula: Arugula can be grown through direct sowing or transplanting.
- Direct Sowing: Sow seeds directly into the ground 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart. Thin seedlings to 3-6 inches apart once they emerge.
- Transplanting: Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost. Transplant seedlings outdoors once they have developed a few sets of true leaves.
Providing Adequate Sunlight: Arugula prefers full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. Too much sun can make it bitter.
Watering Regularly: Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering. Water deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.
Fertilizing Sparingly: Arugula doesn’t require heavy fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every few weeks if the leaves appear pale or growth is slow.
Harvesting Arugula: Harvest leaves when they are 2-3 inches long. Cut the outer leaves, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing. This will allow for multiple harvests.
Controlling Pests and Diseases: Monitor plants regularly for pests and diseases. Aphids and flea beetles are common pests of arugula. Control them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Container Growing Arugula
Arugula is ideally suited for container gardening. Here are a few tips:
- Choose a container that is at least 6 inches deep and wide.
- Use a high-quality potting mix.
- Ensure the container has drainage holes.
- Water frequently, as containers dry out faster than garden beds.
- Protect containers from extreme heat and cold.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding: Planting seeds too close together can lead to stunted growth and reduced yields.
- Insufficient Watering: Arugula needs consistent moisture to thrive.
- Excessive Heat: High temperatures can cause arugula to bolt (go to seed) and develop a bitter taste.
- Neglecting Pests and Diseases: Early detection and treatment of pests and diseases are essential for maintaining a healthy crop.
Troubleshooting Common Arugula Problems
| Problem | Possible Cause(s) | Solution(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Yellowing leaves | Nutrient deficiency, overwatering, disease | Test soil and amend as needed, improve drainage, apply fungicide |
| Holes in leaves | Flea beetles, slugs | Insecticidal soap, diatomaceous earth, slug bait |
| Bitter taste | Heat stress, lack of water, bolting | Provide shade, water regularly, harvest frequently, plant bolt-resistant varieties |
| Slow growth | Poor soil, insufficient sunlight | Amend soil with compost, move plants to a sunnier location |
| Plants going to seed | Heat stress, lack of water | Provide shade, water regularly, harvest frequently |
Storing Your Harvested Arugula
Arugula doesn’t last long after harvest. For best results, store it in the refrigerator in a plastic bag with a slightly damp paper towel. Use within 2-3 days.
Extending the Growing Season
To enjoy arugula for a longer period, consider these techniques:
- Succession Planting: Sow seeds every 2-3 weeks for a continuous harvest.
- Cold Frames/Row Covers: Protect plants from frost and cold temperatures with cold frames or row covers.
- Planting in Shade: During the hottest part of the summer, plant arugula in partial shade to prevent bolting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best time of year to plant arugula?
Arugula is a cool-season crop, so the best time to plant it is in the spring or fall. In areas with mild winters, it can even be grown year-round. Avoid planting during the hottest part of the summer, as high temperatures can cause it to bolt.
How long does it take for arugula to germinate?
Arugula seeds typically germinate within 3-7 days under ideal conditions (moist soil, temperatures between 60-70°F). Germination can be slower in cooler temperatures.
How much space does arugula need?
Arugula plants should be spaced 3-6 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth. If growing in containers, provide at least 6 inches of space per plant.
Can I grow arugula indoors?
Yes, arugula can be grown indoors under grow lights or in a sunny window. Ensure adequate ventilation and humidity to prevent fungal diseases.
What are some good companion plants for arugula?
Good companion plants for arugula include carrots, radishes, lettuce, and onions. Avoid planting it near fennel, as it can inhibit growth.
How do I prevent arugula from bolting?
To prevent arugula from bolting, provide shade during the hottest part of the day, water regularly, and harvest frequently. Choose bolt-resistant varieties for best results.
What is the best way to harvest arugula?
Harvest arugula by cutting the outer leaves, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing. This will allow for multiple harvests. Harvest in the morning when the leaves are freshest.
How do I know when to harvest arugula?
Harvest arugula when the leaves are 2-3 inches long. The larger the leaves, the more pungent the flavor. Harvesting smaller leaves provides a milder taste.
Is arugula a cut-and-come-again crop?
Yes, arugula is a cut-and-come-again crop, meaning you can harvest the leaves multiple times over several weeks. This makes it a very productive and rewarding crop to grow.
What does arugula taste like?
Arugula has a distinctive peppery, slightly spicy flavor. The intensity of the flavor varies depending on the variety and growing conditions. Older leaves tend to be more pungent than younger leaves.
Can you eat arugula flowers?
Yes, arugula flowers are edible and have a similar peppery flavor to the leaves, though sometimes milder. They add a beautiful touch to salads and other dishes.
Are there any health benefits to eating arugula?
Yes, arugula is a nutritious vegetable that is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals. It is also a good source of fiber and antioxidants. It’s believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.