Curious about how to grow arugula? This guide covers everything you need, from planting to harvesting, ensuring you enjoy fresh, flavorful arugula in your kitchen. Read on for expert tips!
As Sara Hameed, a seasoned horticulturist with 9 years of experience in cultivating leafy greens, I’ve had the pleasure of working with arugula throughout my career. This peppery, nutrient-packed green has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. Not only does it add a delightful zest to salads and various dishes, but it’s also relatively easy to grow, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of growing arugula (Eruca sativa), from selecting the right seeds to harvesting your crop. Whether you’re looking to start an indoor herb garden or expand your outdoor vegetable patch, this article will provide you with expert insights and practical tips to ensure your arugula thrives.
Understanding Arugula
What is Arugula?
Arugula, also known as rocket or roquette, is a fast-growing, cool-season crop belonging to the Brassicaceae family. This leafy green is prized for its distinctive peppery flavor and numerous health benefits. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron, arugula has been cultivated for centuries, with its origins tracing back to the Mediterranean region.
Types of Arugula
While there are several varieties of arugula available, they generally fall into two main categories:
- Garden Rocket (Eruca sativa): This is the most common type, known for its lobed leaves and peppery taste.
- Wild Rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia): This variety has more deeply serrated leaves and a more intense flavor.
Some popular cultivars include:
- ‘Astro’: A fast-growing variety with a milder flavor
- ‘Sylvetta’: A slow-bolting wild rocket variety
- ‘Wasabi’: Known for its spicy, wasabi-like taste
- ‘Dragon’s Tongue’: Featuring purple-veined leaves with a mild flavor
Getting Started: Preparing for Arugula Cultivation
Choosing the Right Location
Arugula thrives in full sun to partial shade. In cooler climates, it can tolerate full sun, but in warmer regions, some afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent bolting (premature flowering). When selecting a spot for your arugula, consider the following:
- Sunlight: Aim for at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Soil quality: Arugula prefers well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter.
- Protection: Choose a location sheltered from strong winds to prevent damage to the delicate leaves.
Soil Preparation
Proper soil preparation is crucial for successful arugula cultivation. Follow these steps to create the ideal growing environment:
- Soil testing: Conduct a soil test to determine pH and nutrient levels. Arugula prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0-7.0.
- Soil amendment: Based on the test results, amend the soil as necessary. Add organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure and fertility.
- Tilling: Loosen the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches, removing any rocks, roots, or debris.
- Raised beds: Consider using raised beds for better drainage, especially in areas with heavy clay soil.
Timing Your Planting
Arugula is a cool-season crop that can be grown in spring and fall. The optimal soil temperature for germination is between 40°F and 55°F (4°C to 13°C). Here’s a general guide for timing your arugula planting:
- Spring planting: Sow seeds 2-3 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area.
- Fall planting: Sow seeds 4-6 weeks before the first expected frost date for a fall harvest.
- Succession planting: For a continuous harvest, sow new seeds every 2-3 weeks throughout the growing season.
Planting Arugula
Direct Sowing vs. Transplanting
Arugula can be grown using two methods: direct sowing or transplanting. Each approach has its advantages:
Direct Sowing:
- Pros: Less labor-intensive, no transplant shock
- Cons: Requires more seeds, may result in uneven germination
Transplanting:
- Pros: Better control over spacing, can start indoors earlier
- Cons: More time-consuming, potential for transplant shock
For most home gardeners, direct sowing is the preferred method due to arugula’s quick growth and sensitivity to root disturbance.
Direct Sowing Method
To direct sow arugula:
- Create shallow furrows about 1/4 inch deep and 6 inches apart.
- Sow seeds thinly along the furrows, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Cover the seeds lightly with soil and water gently.
- Keep the soil consistently moist until germination occurs (usually within 5-7 days).
- Once seedlings reach 2-3 inches tall, thin them to 4-6 inches apart.
Transplanting Method
If you choose to transplant:
- Start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date.
- Use biodegradable pots or seed trays filled with a sterile seed-starting mix.
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and keep the soil moist.
- Provide adequate light and maintain a temperature around 70°F (21°C) for optimal germination.
- Harden off seedlings for a week before transplanting outdoors.
- Transplant seedlings 4-6 inches apart in rows spaced 6-8 inches apart.
Care and Maintenance
Watering
Proper watering is essential for healthy arugula growth:
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Water deeply once or twice a week, providing about 1 inch of water per week.
- Use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Water at the base of the plants to avoid wetting the leaves, which can promote fungal diseases.
Fertilizing
Arugula has moderate fertility requirements:
- Before planting, incorporate a balanced, slow-release fertilizer into the soil.
- Side-dress with compost or a nitrogen-rich organic fertilizer every 3-4 weeks during the growing season.
- Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth and reduced flavor.
Weed Management
Effective weed control is crucial for arugula cultivation:
- Regularly remove weeds by hand or with a hoe, being careful not to disturb the shallow roots of the arugula plants.
- Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plants to suppress weed growth and retain moisture.
- Consider using landscape fabric or plastic mulch for larger plantings.
Pest and Disease Management
Like many leafy greens, arugula can be susceptible to various pests and diseases. Implementing an integrated pest management (IPM) approach can help maintain a healthy crop:
Common Pests
- Flea Beetles: These tiny jumping beetles create small holes in leaves.
- Control: Use row covers, apply diatomaceous earth, or plant trap crops like radishes.
- Aphids: These small sap-sucking insects can quickly multiply and weaken plants.
- Control: Spray plants with a strong stream of water, introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs, or use insecticidal soap.
- Cabbage Loopers: These green caterpillars can cause significant leaf damage.
- Control: Handpick caterpillars, use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) as a biological control.
- Slugs and Snails: These mollusks feed on leaves, leaving irregular holes.
- Control: Use beer traps, copper tape, or organic slug baits.
Common Diseases
- Downy Mildew: This fungal disease causes yellow spots on leaf surfaces and gray mold underneath.
- Prevention: Ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and practice crop rotation.
- Fusarium Wilt: This soil-borne fungus causes wilting and yellowing of leaves.
- Prevention: Use disease-resistant varieties, practice crop rotation, and maintain good soil health.
- Bacterial Leaf Spot: This disease causes water-soaked spots on leaves that eventually turn brown.
- Prevention: Avoid overhead watering, remove infected plants, and use disease-free seeds.
Companion Planting
Companion planting can benefit arugula by deterring pests and improving growth. Consider planting arugula alongside:
- Herbs: Mint, basil, dill, and cilantro
- Vegetables: Carrots, radishes, and lettuce
- Flowers: Nasturtiums and marigolds
Avoid planting arugula near strawberries, as they can inhibit each other’s growth.
Harvesting and Storage
When to Harvest
Arugula is typically ready for harvest 30-40 days after sowing, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Look for these signs:
- Leaves are 2-3 inches long
- Plants have developed 6-8 true leaves
- Leaves are tender and have a peppery aroma
Harvesting Methods
There are two main methods for harvesting arugula:
- Cut-and-come-again: Cut leaves about 1 inch above the soil, leaving the growing center intact. This allows for multiple harvests from the same plant.
- Whole plant harvest: Pull out the entire plant, roots and all. This method is best when the plant shows signs of bolting or if you need to clear the area for other crops.
Storage
To maintain freshness:
- Rinse leaves gently in cool water and pat dry.
- Wrap leaves in paper towels and place in a perforated plastic bag.
- Store in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer for up to 5-7 days.
- For longer storage, consider freezing or drying the leaves.
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Arugula Planting Guide
Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, 1 inch apart in rows 6 inches apart. Thin seedlings to 4-6 inches apart when they reach 2-3 inches tall. Plant in spring 2-3 weeks before the last frost date or in fall 4-6 weeks before the first frost date.
Growing Arugula in Pots
Choose a container at least 6 inches deep with drainage holes. Use a well-draining potting mix and place the pot in a location that receives 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Arugula Care and Maintenance
Water consistently, keeping soil moist. Fertilize every 3-4 weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer. Remove weeds regularly and monitor for pests. Provide partial shade in hot climates to prevent bolting.
Best Soil for Arugula
Use well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter. Aim for a pH between 6.0-7.0. Amend poor soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
Arugula Growing Tips
Plant in succession every 2-3 weeks for continuous harvest. Provide afternoon shade in warm climates. Harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage new growth. Use row covers to protect from pests and extend the growing season.
When to Sow Arugula Seeds
Sow seeds in spring 2-3 weeks before the last frost date for early crops. For fall harvest, sow 4-6 weeks before the first frost date. In mild climates, sow every 2-3 weeks throughout the growing season.
Organic Arugula Gardening
Use organic compost or well-rotted manure for fertilization. Implement companion planting and crop rotation. Control pests with natural methods like handpicking, row covers, or introducing beneficial insects.
Challenges of Growing Arugula
Main challenges include bolting in hot weather, pest infestations (particularly flea beetles), and maintaining consistent moisture. Overcome these by providing partial shade, using row covers, and mulching to retain soil moisture.
Harvesting and Using Arugula
Harvest when leaves are 2-3 inches long, cutting about 1 inch above soil level. Use fresh in salads, sandwiches, or as a pizza topping. Cook briefly in stir-fries or add to soups and pasta dishes for a peppery flavor.
Arugula Plant Growth Stages
- Germination (5-7 days)
- Seedling (7-14 days)
- Vegetative growth (14-30 days)
- Mature plant (30-40 days)
- Bolting (40+ days, depending on conditions)
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How to Grow Arugula Indoors
Grow arugula indoors in a sunny window or under grow lights. Use a well-draining potting mix in containers at least 6 inches deep. Maintain temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C) and water consistently to keep soil moist.
Easy Steps to Grow Arugula in Containers
- Choose a container with drainage holes
- Fill with well-draining potting mix
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, 1 inch apart
- Water gently and place in a sunny spot
- Thin seedlings to 4-6 inches apart
- Water regularly and fertilize every 3-4 weeks
Best Tips for Arugula Garden
- Plant in succession for continuous harvest
- Provide partial shade in hot climates
- Use row covers to protect from pests
- Harvest regularly to encourage new growth
- Keep soil consistently moist
- Practice crop rotation to prevent disease buildup
How to Maintain Arugula Plants
- Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged
- Fertilize every 3-4 weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer
- Remove weeds regularly
- Monitor for pests and diseases
- Provide shade during hot afternoons
- Harvest outer leaves to promote continued growth
Growing Arugula from Seeds
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, 1 inch apart in rows
- Keep soil consistently moist until germination
- Thin seedlings to 4-6 inches apart when they reach 2-3 inches tall
- Provide adequate sunlight (4-6 hours daily)
- Begin harvesting when plants have 6-8 true leaves
Conclusion
Growing arugula can be a rewarding experience for both novice and experienced gardeners. By following the guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to cultivate a bountiful crop of this peppery, nutritious green. Remember that successful arugula cultivation relies on proper timing, consistent care, and attentiveness to potential issues.
As we look to the future, the popularity of arugula is likely to continue growing, driven by increasing interest in healthy, locally-grown produce. Whether you’re growing arugula for personal consumption or as part of a larger market garden operation, the techniques and tips provided here will help ensure your success.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different varieties and growing methods to find what works best in your specific environment. With practice and patience, you’ll soon be enjoying fresh, homegrown arugula year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best time to plant arugula?
The best time to plant arugula is in early spring, 2-3 weeks before the last frost date, or in late summer to early fall, 4-6 weeks before the first frost date. In mild climates, arugula can be grown year-round.
How long does it take for arugula to germinate?
Arugula typically germinates within 5-7 days under optimal conditions (soil temperature between 40-55°F or 4-13°C).
What are the ideal growing conditions for arugula?
Arugula prefers cool temperatures (60-70°F or 15-21°C), full sun to partial shade, and well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0-7.0. It requires consistent moisture but not waterlogged conditions.
Can arugula be grown indoors?
Yes, arugula can be grown indoors in containers near a sunny window or under grow lights. Ensure proper drainage, consistent moisture, and adequate light (at least 6 hours daily).
How often should I water arugula?
Water arugula regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. This typically means watering deeply once or twice a week, providing about 1 inch of water per week.
What pests might affect arugula plants?
Common pests that affect arugula include flea beetles, aphids, cabbage loopers, and slugs or snails. Use integrated pest management techniques such as row covers, companion planting, and organic pesticides when necessary.
How can I harvest arugula correctly?
Harvest arugula when leaves are 2-3 inches long, typically 30-40 days after sowing. Cut leaves about 1 inch above the soil line using clean, sharp scissors. This “cut-and-come-again” method allows for multiple harvests.
Can I grow arugula in containers?
Yes, arugula grows well in containers. Use pots at least 6 inches deep with drainage holes, filled with a well-draining potting mix. Ensure consistent moisture and adequate sunlight.
What are some companion plants for arugula?
Good companion plants for arugula include herbs like mint, basil, and dill; vegetables such as carrots and radishes; and flowers like nasturtiums and marigolds. These plants can help deter pests and improve overall garden health.
How do I store fresh arugula after harvesting?
After harvesting, gently rinse arugula leaves and pat them dry. Wrap the leaves in paper towels and store them in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer. Properly stored arugula can last 5-7 days.