Roquette arugula, also known as rocket or salad rocket, is a versatile leafy green that can add a delicious peppery kick to your meals. If you live in Zones 7a or 7b, you’re in luck, as this plant thrives in your climate. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of growing roquette arugula in these zones, including when to plant and how to care for it.
Growing Roquette Arugula in Zones 7a and 7b
Growing roquette arugula in Zones 7a and 7b is relatively easy, thanks to the moderate temperatures and mild winters in these regions. This plant prefers cool weather and plenty of sunlight, making it a perfect crop for spring and fall. Here’s what you need to know to get started:
Climate & Hardiness in Zones 7a and 7b
Roquette arugula is a cool-season crop that thrives in temperatures between 50°F and 75°F (10°C to 24°C). As you may already know, Zones 7a and 7b experience an average annual minimum temperature range of 5°F to 15°F (-15°C to -9.5°C) and -10°F to 5°F (-23°C to -15°C), respectively. These temperature ranges make it favorable for roquette arugula to grow throughout the year.
When to Plant Roquette Arugula in Zones 7a and 7b
One of the key factors for successful roquette arugula growth is planting it at the right time. In Zones 7a and 7b, you have two optimal seasons for sowing roquette arugula seeds:
- Spring Planting: Sow the seeds directly in the garden bed as soon as the soil can be worked in early spring. Typically, this is around late February to early March in Zones 7a and 7b.
- Fall Planting: For a fall harvest, sow the seeds in late summer, around mid to late August. This allows the plant to establish before the cooler temperatures set in.
It’s important to note that roquette arugula is a fast-growing plant with a maturity period of just 35 to 40 days. This means you can enjoy fresh arugula leaves within just a few weeks of planting!
When to Harvest or Pick Roquette Arugula in Zones 7a and 7b
Once your roquette arugula plants reach a height of 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) and have developed several leaves, it’s time to start harvesting. The leaves are at their peak flavor and tenderness during this stage. Here’s how to harvest your arugula:
- Using a sharp pair of scissors or garden pruners, cut the outer leaves of the plant, leaving the inner leaves and the growing point intact.
- Harvesting only the outer leaves allows the plants to continue growing and producing more leaves for future harvests.
- You can harvest the leaves as needed, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh arugula throughout the growing season.
Now, let’s dive deeper into the fascinating world of roquette arugula. Did you know that this leafy green is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients? Arugula is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and calcium. Incorporating arugula into your diet can help boost your immune system, promote healthy bones, and support cardiovascular health.
Furthermore, roquette arugula has a distinct peppery flavor that adds a delightful kick to salads, sandwiches, and even pizza. Its unique taste makes it a favorite among chefs and food enthusiasts alike. You can experiment with different flavor combinations by pairing arugula with ingredients like goat cheese, walnuts, or balsamic vinegar.
When it comes to growing roquette arugula, it’s essential to provide the plants with adequate sunlight and well-draining soil. Arugula thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter regions. As for soil, roquette arugula prefers a slightly acidic pH level between 6.0 and 6.5. Adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, can improve soil fertility and drainage.
Another interesting fact about roquette arugula is that it belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which includes other popular vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and kale. This family of plants is known for its nutritional value and health benefits. By growing roquette arugula, you’re not only adding a delicious ingredient to your meals but also contributing to a well-rounded and nutritious diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions that gardeners in Zones 7a and 7b often have about growing roquette arugula:
- Q: Can I grow roquette arugula in containers?
- Q: Is roquette arugula the same as regular arugula?
- Q: How can I prevent pests from damaging my roquette arugula?
A: Absolutely! Roquette arugula can be grown successfully in containers, as long as they are placed in a sunny spot and provided with adequate water and nutrients. Container gardening is a great option for those with limited space or for gardeners looking to control the growing conditions more precisely. Make sure to choose a container with good drainage to prevent waterlogging, and consider using a high-quality potting mix to provide the necessary nutrients for your arugula plants to thrive.
A: Yes, roquette arugula is another name for regular arugula. It is known for its distinct peppery flavor and is widely used in salads and various culinary dishes. Arugula, whether called roquette or rocket, belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which includes other popular vegetables like broccoli and kale. This leafy green is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and calcium.
A: While roquette arugula is relatively pest-resistant, you may still encounter some common pests like aphids or flea beetles. To prevent damage, keep your garden clean by removing any debris or weeds that may attract pests. Additionally, you can use row covers to physically block insects from reaching your arugula plants or apply organic pest control methods such as neem oil or insecticidal soap. Companion planting with pest-repelling herbs like basil or dill can also help deter unwanted visitors from your arugula patch.
So, whether you’re a novice gardener or an experienced one, growing roquette arugula in Zones 7a and 7b is a rewarding experience. From planting to harvest, this leafy green will provide you with fresh and flavorful leaves to enhance your culinary creations. Give it a try, and enjoy the abundance of this nutritious and delicious crop!
Join the How to Grow Everything Community
Ready to transform your gardening skills and cultivate the garden of your dreams? Subscribe for free to How to Grow Everything and gain access to personalized gardening advice tailored to your specific zone, experience, and interests. Enjoy the best gardening tips, special offers, and insightful articles—all delivered directly to your inbox. Embrace the joy of gardening with our family’s support and thousands of free resources, ensuring your success with crops like roquette arugula and more. Join us now and let’s grow together!
