What To Know
- Freshly harvested arugula can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week if wrapped in a damp paper towel.
- Arugula is a popular topping for pizzas, adding a fresh and slightly bitter counterpoint to the cheese and other toppings.
- In milder climates, you can grow arugula during the winter by planting it in a protected area or using a cold frame.
Arugula, with its peppery bite and vibrant green leaves, is a culinary gem that can add a burst of flavor to any dish. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, growing your own arugula is an incredibly rewarding experience. This guide will walk you through every step, from sowing the seeds to enjoying the fresh harvest.
Understanding Arugula: A Quick Overview
Arugula, also known as rocket or roquette, is a fast-growing leafy green that belongs to the mustard family. It’s known for its distinctive spicy flavor and delicate, slightly bitter notes. Arugula can be enjoyed raw in salads, sandwiches, and pizzas, or cooked in pasta dishes and stir-fries.
Choosing the Right Arugula Variety
With a wide range of arugula varieties available, choosing the right one for your garden is crucial. Here are some popular options:
- “Rocket”: This classic variety has a strong, peppery flavor and is perfect for salads and sandwiches.
- “Astro”: This variety is known for its large, tender leaves and mild flavor, making it ideal for salads and as a garnish.
- “Sylvetta”: This variety is characterized by its compact, bushy growth habit and its slightly sweeter flavor.
Preparing Your Garden Bed for Arugula
Arugula thrives in loose, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH (6.0-6.5). Here’s how to prepare your garden bed:
1. Clear the area: Remove any weeds, debris, or existing plants.
2. Amend the soil: Mix in compost or aged manure to enrich the soil and improve drainage.
3. Test the pH: Use a soil test kit to determine the pH and adjust accordingly with lime or sulfur.
4. Till the soil: Use a tiller or hand rake to loosen the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches.
Sowing Arugula Seeds
Arugula seeds are tiny, so it’s important to sow them shallowly. Here’s the process:
1. Direct sowing: Arugula seeds can be directly sown in the garden bed. Make shallow furrows about 1/4 inch deep and space the seeds 1-2 inches apart.
2. Thinning: Once the seedlings emerge, thin them out to ensure proper spacing, leaving about 4-6 inches between plants.
Caring for Your Arugula Plants
Arugula requires consistent watering, especially during hot weather. Here’s how to care for your plants:
1. Watering: Water your arugula plants deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
2. Weeding: Regularly remove any weeds that compete with your arugula plants for nutrients and water.
3. Fertilizing: Arugula is a light feeder and doesn’t require heavy fertilization. You can apply a balanced organic fertilizer once or twice during the growing season.
Harvesting Your Arugula
Arugula is ready for harvest about 3-4 weeks after sowing. Here’s how to harvest it:
1. Cut the leaves: Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the leaves about 1-2 inches above the ground.
2. Harvest regularly: Harvesting your arugula regularly encourages new growth and prevents the plants from bolting (producing flowers).
3. Storage: Freshly harvested arugula can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week if wrapped in a damp paper towel.
Enjoying Your Arugula Harvest
Arugula is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas:
- Salads: Arugula adds a peppery kick to salads. Pair it with other greens, fruits, and vegetables.
- Sandwiches: Arugula is a delicious addition to sandwiches, adding a fresh and flavorful element.
- Pasta dishes: Toss arugula with pasta, olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese for a simple and flavorful dish.
- Pizzas: Arugula is a popular topping for pizzas, adding a fresh and slightly bitter counterpoint to the cheese and other toppings.
Tips for Success: Growing Arugula Year-Round
With a little planning, you can enjoy fresh arugula year-round. Here are some tips:
- Successive planting: Sow arugula seeds every 2-3 weeks for a continuous harvest.
- Winter growing: In milder climates, you can grow arugula during the winter by planting it in a protected area or using a cold frame.
- Indoor growing: Grow arugula indoors in containers on a sunny windowsill or under grow lights.
Arugula: A Culinary Delight and a Garden Staple
Growing your own arugula is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy the fresh, peppery flavor of this versatile green. With a little care and attention, you can have a continuous supply of arugula for your salads, sandwiches, and other culinary creations.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I grow arugula in containers?
A: Yes, arugula can be successfully grown in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches wide and deep.
Q: What are the signs of arugula bolting?
A: Bolting is when arugula plants produce flowers. The leaves become bitter and tough. Signs of bolting include taller stems and flower buds forming.
Q: How do I prevent arugula from bolting?
A: To prevent bolting, choose a variety that is known for its bolting resistance. Keep the soil consistently moist, and avoid over-fertilizing.
Q: Can I save arugula seeds?
A: Yes, you can save arugula seeds. Allow the seed pods to dry on the plant, then collect the seeds from the pods.
Q: What are the benefits of growing arugula?
A: Arugula is a nutrient-rich green that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is also relatively easy to grow, making it a great choice for beginner gardeners.
