How to Grow Arugula

Arugula is a delicious and nutritious leafy green vegetable that is easy to grow in your own garden. Whether you have a large backyard or just a small patio, you can enjoy fresh arugula all season long. In this article, we will guide you through the process of growing arugula from seed to harvest. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

When to Start Arugula

If you live in a colder climate, you can start growing arugula indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date. For those in mild climates, you can also sow arugula seeds directly in the garden a couple of weeks before the last frost. This will ensure that your arugula crop gets a head start and can be enjoyed as soon as possible.

Arugula, also known as rocket or roquette, is a peppery, leafy green that is a member of the Brassicaceae family. It is a cool-season crop that thrives in temperatures between 50-70°F (10-21°C). Arugula is a quick-growing plant, with most varieties ready to harvest in just 4-6 weeks after planting.When starting arugula indoors, use a well-draining potting mix and sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as arugula plants prefer slightly moist conditions. Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, they can be thinned to about 6 inches apart to allow room for growth.In the garden, arugula can be planted in rows or scattered throughout a bed. It is a versatile plant that can be grown in full sun to partial shade. Arugula is also known for its resistance to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance addition to any garden. Be sure to harvest the leaves when they are young and tender for the best flavor and texture.

How to Grow Arugula From Seed

Growing arugula from seed is a rewarding and relatively simple process that can yield delicious, peppery greens for your salads and dishes. Arugula, also known as rocket or roquette, is a cool-season crop that thrives in moderate temperatures, making it an excellent choice for early spring or fall planting.

Before you embark on your arugula-growing journey, it’s essential to understand the specific needs of this leafy green. Arugula prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 6.8. To prepare your soil, consider amending it with organic matter such as compost to improve fertility and provide essential nutrients for robust growth.

Prepare the soil: Arugula thrives in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve fertility.
Sow the seeds: Plant the arugula seeds thinly, about a quarter-inch deep and 1-2 inches apart. Space rows 12-18 inches apart.
Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist throughout the germination period, which usually takes 7-14 days. Remember to water gently to avoid disturbing the seeds.
Sunlight: Arugula prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Ensure your arugula plants receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Thinning: Once the seedlings are about 2-3 inches tall, thin them to 6-8 inches apart. This spacing allows enough room for each plant to grow and prevents overcrowding.

As your arugula plants mature, you can harvest the leaves when they reach the desired size, typically around 6-8 inches in length. Regular harvesting not only provides you with fresh greens for your meals but also encourages the plants to produce more leaves, extending your harvest throughout the season.

How and When to Transplant Arugula

Transplanting arugula is recommended if you started the seeds indoors and want to move them to your garden or containers. Follow these steps:

Choose the right time: Transplant arugula seedlings when they have developed their first true leaves and are about 3-4 inches tall.
Prepare the soil: Make sure the soil in your garden or containers is well-drained and amended with compost.
Dig the holes: Dig holes that are slightly larger than the root ball of the seedling.
Transplant: Gently lift the seedlings from their containers, being careful not to damage the roots. Place each seedling into a hole, then backfill with soil, firming it gently around the base.
Water: After transplanting, water the arugula seedlings thoroughly to help them establish in their new location.

Transplanting arugula is not only a practical way to ensure a successful growth cycle but also a rewarding experience for any gardener. The process of moving these delicate seedlings from one environment to another requires patience and attention to detail. By transplanting arugula, you are giving them a fresh start in a new space where they can thrive and contribute to your culinary adventures.

When transplanting arugula, consider the weather conditions in your area. Choosing a mild, overcast day for the transplant can help reduce stress on the seedlings. Additionally, providing some shade for the newly transplanted arugula can prevent wilting and promote quicker establishment in their new home.

How to Plant Arugula – Spacing and Patterns

Proper spacing and patterns are crucial factors to consider when planting arugula to ensure the health and productivity of your crop. By following these guidelines, you can set the stage for a successful arugula harvest:

Spacing: It is recommended to allow 6-8 inches of space between each arugula plant. This spacing not only facilitates proper air circulation around the plants but also helps prevent overcrowding, which can lead to competition for essential nutrients in the soil.
Patterns: While planting arugula in straight rows is a common practice, there are other creative planting patterns you can experiment with to maximize space and visual appeal in your garden. Consider planting arugula in a grid formation or opt for staggered rows to create a visually interesting layout.

When determining the spacing between arugula plants, keep in mind the mature size of the plant. Arugula leaves are typically harvested when they are young and tender, but the plants will continue to grow if left in the ground. Providing adequate space between each plant allows room for growth and helps prevent overcrowding, which can lead to issues such as poor air circulation and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.

How Long to Grow Arugula

One of the great things about arugula is that it matures relatively quickly. On average, arugula takes about 35-40 days from seed to harvest. However, it’s important to note that certain factors, such as temperature and variety, can influence the growth rate.

Pro Tip: To enjoy a continuous harvest, you can follow a succession planting schedule. Sow a new batch of arugula seeds every two weeks to ensure a fresh supply throughout the growing season.

How to Water Arugula

Watering is a crucial aspect of arugula care. Here are some watering tips:

Consistent moisture: Arugula prefers consistently moist soil. Water deeply, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Avoid overhead watering: To prevent foliar diseases, avoid overhead watering. Instead, direct the water at the base of the plants.
Watering frequency: Start by watering every two to three days and adjust based on the weather conditions and moisture level in the soil.

How to Fertilize Arugula

Arugula is a relatively low-maintenance plant when it comes to fertilization. Here are some tips to keep your arugula plants well-nourished:

Soil preparation: Before planting, incorporate compost or aged manure into the soil to improve fertility.
Organic fertilizers: Apply a balanced organic fertilizer, such as compost tea or fish emulsion, when the plants are about 3-4 weeks old.
Layer mulch: Mulch around the base of the plants with organic materials like straw or grass clippings to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Sunlight Requirements for Arugula

Arugula thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Here’s what you need to know about sun exposure:

Full sun: Arugula plants need at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily to grow and produce a good crop.
Partial shade: If you live in a hot climate, providing some afternoon shade can help prevent the leaves from becoming bitter.

Soil Requirements for Arugula

Arugula grows best in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Here are some tips to ensure your soil is ideal for arugula:

Organic matter: Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil structure and fertility.
Soil pH: Test your soil’s pH, and if necessary, adjust it by adding lime to raise the pH or sulfur to lower the pH.

How to Grow Arugula Outdoors

Growing arugula outdoors is a rewarding experience. Follow these tips to ensure successful outdoor cultivation:

Choose the right time: Sow arugula seeds outdoors a couple of weeks before the last expected frost date in your area.
Prepare the soil: Loosen the top few inches of soil and amend with compost or well-rotted manure.
Sow the seeds: Plant the seeds about a quarter-inch deep and 1-2 inches apart. Space rows 12-18 inches apart.
Provide sun protection: Use row covers or shade cloth to protect young arugula seedlings from intense sunlight or frost, if necessary.

How to Grow Arugula Indoors

If you don’t have outdoor garden space, don’t worry! You can grow arugula indoors too. Here’s how:

Choose a container: Select a container with drainage holes that is at least 6 inches deep.
Fill with potting mix: Fill the container with a well-draining potting mix, specifically formulated for container gardening.
Sow the seeds: Plant the seeds a quarter-inch deep and 1-2 inches apart.
Find a sunny spot: Place the container in a location that receives 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Water and care: Keep the soil evenly moist and fertilize as needed.
Harvest: Harvest leaves as soon as they reach the desired size.

How to Grow Arugula In Containers and Pots

Arugula is an excellent choice for container gardening. Follow these steps to grow arugula in containers:

Choose a container: Select a container that is at least 6-8 inches deep. Ensure it has drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil.
Potting mix: Fill the container with a well-draining potting mix, enriched with organic matter.
Sow the seeds: Scatter the arugula seeds evenly across the surface of the potting mix.
Water and care: Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering. Ensure the container receives adequate sunlight.
Harvest: Begin harvesting leaves when they reach the desired size, leaving a few outer leaves intact to allow for regrowth.

Best and Most Popular Arugula Varieties

Arugula comes in different varieties, each with its own unique flavor and characteristics. Here are some popular arugula varieties:

Wild Rocket: This variety has a sharp, intense flavor and deeply serrated dark green leaves.
Astro: Astro is known for its mild flavor and fast growth rate, making it great for baby leaves.
Slow Bolt: As the name suggests, this variety is slow to bolt, meaning it takes longer to go to seed. It has a milder flavor and is perfect for extended harvests.

Arugula Companion Plants – What to Plant With & Not Plant With Arugula

Companion planting can benefit arugula by attracting beneficial insects, repelling pests, or providing shade. Here are some companion plants to consider:

Beneficial companions: Plant arugula near herbs like basil, dill, and cilantro, which can attract beneficial insects.
Pest-deterring companions: Arugula dislikes the scent of sage, so planting sage alongside can help deter pests.
Incompatible plants: Avoid planting arugula near tomatoes, as they compete for similar nutrients and growing conditions.

Common Arugula Pests and Diseases

While arugula is generally pest and disease resistant, it can still face some issues. Here are a few common pests and diseases that can affect arugula:

Flea beetles: These tiny beetles can leave small holes in the leaves. Use row covers or sticky traps to protect your arugula plants.
Downy mildew: This fungal disease can cause yellowing or wilting leaves. Provide good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent downy mildew.

How & When to Harvest Arugula

Harvesting arugula at the right time is key to enjoying its fresh and tangy flavor. Here’s what you need to know:

Leaf harvest: You can start harvesting arugula leaves when they reach 2-3 inches in length. Simply cut the outer leaves with sharp scissors or a knife, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing.
Continuous harvest: For a continuous harvest, harvest leaves regularly, allowing new leaves to grow. This practice will extend the lifespan of your arugula plants.
Flowering stage: If you prefer a more peppery taste, you can allow some plants to bolt and produce flowers. The flowers are also edible and can add a pop of color to salads.

How to Store & Preserve Arugula

To prolong the shelf life of your freshly harvested arugula, follow these storage guidelines:

Refrigeration: Wash the arugula leaves, dry them thoroughly, and store them in a resealable plastic bag lined with a paper towel. This method can keep arugula fresh for up to a week in the refrigerator.
Blanching and freezing: If you have an abundance of arugula, blanch the leaves in boiling water for a few seconds, then transfer them to an ice bath to cool. Pack the blanched leaves into freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to six months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about growing arugula:

1. How often should I water arugula? Arugula prefers consistently moist soil. Water deeply, ensuring the soil is evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Adjust the frequency based on weather conditions.
2. Can I grow arugula in a small space or container? Absolutely! Arugula is well-suited for container gardening and can thrive in small spaces like balconies or patios.
3. Can I grow arugula year-round? Arugula is a cool-season crop and can grow year-round in mild climates. In colder regions, you can extend the growing season by using row covers or growing arugula in a greenhouse or cold frame.
4. Can I save arugula seeds for future planting? Yes, you can save arugula seeds. Allow a few plants to flower and go to seed, then collect the dried seedpods and store them in a cool, dry place for future planting.

Now that you have all the knowledge and tips on how to grow arugula, it’s time to get your hands dirty and start planting! Enjoy the satisfaction of growing your own fresh and flavorful arugula, and savor the taste of this versatile leafy green in your favorite salads, sandwiches, and more.

Join the How to Grow Everything Community

Ready to take your gardening skills to the next level? Subscribe for free to How to Grow Everything and learn how to build the garden of your dreams! Receive personalized gardening advice tailored to your location, grow zone, and experience level. With our family’s commitment to providing the best gardening tips and special offers, you’ll have everything you need to grow arugula and much more. No spam, just valuable information and deals delivered straight to your inbox. Start your journey to a bountiful garden today!