Arugula, also known as “rocket,” is a leafy green vegetable that is packed with flavor and nutritional benefits. It’s a popular choice for salads and other dishes, and it’s also quite easy to grow in your own garden. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of planting wild rocket arugula, with a focus on the ideal patterns and spacing for optimal growth.
Understanding Wild Rocket Arugula
Before we dive into the planting process, it’s important to understand a bit more about wild rocket arugula. This plant, scientifically known as Eruca vesicaria, is a member of the Brassicaceae family, which also includes broccoli, cabbage, and kale. It’s native to the Mediterranean region but has been cultivated worldwide due to its peppery, tangy flavor and its nutritional benefits.
According to the USDA, arugula is a good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate. It also contains calcium, iron, and potassium. Plus, it’s low in calories, making it a healthy addition to any diet.
Wild Rocket vs. Cultivated Arugula
There are two main types of arugula: wild rocket and cultivated arugula. Wild rocket, also known as “true rocket,” has smaller, more deeply lobed leaves and a stronger flavor than cultivated arugula. It’s also more tolerant of poor soil and weather conditions, making it a great choice for beginner gardeners.
On the other hand, cultivated arugula, sometimes called “salad rocket,” has larger, broader leaves and a milder flavor. It’s often preferred for culinary uses, but it requires more care and attention in the garden.
Preparing the Soil for Planting
Like most vegetables, arugula prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Before planting, it’s a good idea to prepare the soil by adding compost or a slow-release fertilizer. This will provide the nutrients that the arugula plants need to grow.
According to the University of Minnesota Extension, arugula prefers a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0. You can test the soil pH using a soil test kit, which is available at most garden centers. If the soil pH is too low (acidic), you can add lime to raise it. If it’s too high (alkaline), you can add sulfur to lower it.
Choosing the Right Location
Arugula grows best in full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. In hot climates, it’s a good idea to plant arugula in a location where it will receive some afternoon shade to protect it from the intense heat.
Arugula also doesn’t require a lot of space to grow. It can be planted in a traditional garden bed, in raised beds, or even in containers. This makes it a great choice for urban gardeners or those with limited space.
Planting Wild Rocket Arugula
Once the soil is prepared and you’ve chosen the right location, it’s time to plant the arugula seeds. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Begin by sowing the seeds directly into the soil. Arugula seeds are small, so they should be planted about 1/4 inch deep.
- Space the seeds about 1 inch apart in rows. The rows should be spaced about 10 to 12 inches apart. This will give the plants plenty of room to grow.
- After sowing the seeds, cover them lightly with soil and water them well.
- Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about 7 to 14 days.
- Once the seedlings are about 2 inches tall, thin them out so that they are spaced about 6 to 8 inches apart. This will ensure that each plant has enough space to grow and develop properly.
Arugula grows quickly, and you can begin harvesting the leaves as soon as they are large enough to eat, usually about 4 weeks after planting.
Caring for Arugula Plants
Arugula is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but there are a few things you can do to ensure a healthy and productive harvest.
First, keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Arugula prefers evenly moist soil, but it doesn’t like to sit in water. If you’re growing arugula in containers, make sure the containers have good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Second, fertilize the plants regularly with a balanced vegetable fertilizer. This will provide the nutrients that the arugula plants need to grow and produce leaves.
Finally, keep an eye out for pests. Arugula can be affected by several common garden pests, including aphids, flea beetles, and cabbage worms. If you notice any signs of pest damage, take action immediately to prevent the pests from spreading.
Harvesting and Storing Arugula
Arugula can be harvested as soon as the leaves are large enough to eat. To harvest, simply cut the leaves with a pair of scissors or a sharp knife. Be sure to leave at least 1 inch of growth so that the plant can continue to produce leaves.
Arugula is best when eaten fresh, but it can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. To store arugula, wash the leaves thoroughly, dry them completely, and then store them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.
With these tips and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to growing your own delicious and nutritious wild rocket arugula. Happy gardening!
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