Arugula, also known as rocket or roquette, is a leafy green vegetable that is loved for its peppery flavor and nutritional value. It’s a popular choice for salads, sandwiches, and even as a pizza topping. Growing arugula from seeds is a simple and rewarding process that can be done by gardeners of all skill levels. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step.
Understanding Arugula
Before we delve into the planting process, it’s important to understand a bit about arugula itself. Arugula is a cool-season crop, which means it prefers to grow in cooler temperatures. It’s also a fast-growing plant, often ready to harvest just four to six weeks after planting.
Arugula is a member of the Brassica family, which includes other leafy greens like kale, cabbage, and broccoli. It’s a hardy plant that can tolerate a light frost, making it a great choice for early spring or late fall planting.
One of the benefits of growing arugula is its high nutritional value. According to the USDA, arugula is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and calcium.
Getting Started
Choosing Your Seeds
There are several varieties of arugula to choose from, each with its own unique flavor profile. Some popular varieties include ‘Rocket’ (known for its spicy flavor), ‘Wild Italian’ (with a more robust flavor), and ‘Sylvetta’ (a slower-growing variety with a nutty taste).
When selecting your seeds, look for ones that are organic and non-GMO. This ensures that you’re growing arugula that is free from harmful chemicals and genetically modified organisms.
Preparing Your Soil
Arugula prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. You can test your soil’s pH using a soil test kit, which can be purchased at most garden centers or online.
If your soil is too acidic (below 6.0), you can add lime to raise the pH. If it’s too alkaline (above 7.0), you can add sulfur to lower the pH. Both lime and sulfur can be found at your local garden center.
Arugula also benefits from rich, fertile soil. Before planting, mix in some compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.
Planting Your Arugula Seeds
- Start by preparing your garden bed. Remove any weeds or rocks and rake the soil until it’s smooth.
- Next, make shallow trenches about 1/4 inch deep and 10 inches apart. You can use the edge of a garden trowel to do this.
- Place the arugula seeds in the trenches, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Cover the seeds with soil and gently pat down to ensure good contact between the seeds and the soil.
- Water the area thoroughly. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, as the seeds germinate.
Caring for Your Arugula Plants
Watering
Arugula prefers consistently moist soil. Water your plants regularly, especially during dry spells. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
A good rule of thumb is to water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. A soaker hose or drip irrigation system can be a great way to provide consistent moisture without overwatering.
Weeding
Keep the area around your arugula plants free from weeds. Weeds compete with your plants for nutrients and water, so regular weeding is essential for healthy growth.
Using mulch around your plants can help suppress weeds and also helps retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing
Arugula is a fast-growing plant and can benefit from regular feeding. Use a balanced organic fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Follow the package instructions for application rates.
Harvesting Your Arugula
Arugula is typically ready to harvest 4-6 weeks after planting. To harvest, simply cut the leaves with a sharp knife or scissors. Always leave at least 2 inches of growth so the plant can continue to produce leaves.
Arugula can be harvested as needed for fresh use. For the best flavor, harvest in the morning when the leaves are crisp and full of moisture.
Common Pests and Diseases
Like any garden plant, arugula can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Flea beetles, aphids, and cabbage worms are common pests that can cause damage to your plants. Diseases such as downy mildew and white rust can also affect arugula.
Regular monitoring of your plants can help catch any issues early. If you notice any signs of pests or disease, consult your local extension service or a trusted gardening book for treatment options.
Enjoying Your Harvest
Once you’ve harvested your arugula, there are countless ways to enjoy it. Use it fresh in salads, sandwiches, or as a pizza topping. You can also cook it in soups, pasta dishes, or even make it into a pesto.
Not only is arugula delicious, but it’s also incredibly healthy. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science, arugula is high in antioxidants and can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
So why wait? Start growing your own arugula from seeds today and enjoy the fruits (or rather, leaves) of your labor!
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