What To Know
- Whether you have a spacious garden or just a sunny windowsill, growing your own arugula is achievable and will leave you with a fresh, flavorful ingredient at your fingertips.
- Arugula is a light feeder, but you can give it a boost with a balanced liquid fertilizer every few weeks.
- Store your harvested arugula in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Arugula, also known as rocket, is a peppery, leafy green that adds a delightful kick to salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes. Its vibrant flavor and quick growth make it a popular choice for both seasoned gardeners and beginners. If you’re looking to add this flavorful green to your culinary repertoire, learning how to grow arugula from seed is a rewarding and surprisingly easy endeavor.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from selecting the right seeds to harvesting your first bountiful harvest. Whether you have a spacious garden or just a sunny windowsill, growing your own arugula is achievable and will leave you with a fresh, flavorful ingredient at your fingertips.
Choosing the Right Arugula Seeds
The first step in your arugula journey is selecting the right seeds. There are numerous varieties available, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some popular options:
- ‘Rocket’: This classic variety is known for its peppery flavor and fast growth.
- ‘Sylvetta’: This variety boasts a slightly milder flavor and larger leaves, making it suitable for both salads and cooking.
- ‘Astro’: This variety is a favorite for its heat-tolerant nature, ideal for warmer climates.
- ‘Red Rocket’: This unique variety features vibrant red stems and leaves, adding a visual appeal to your garden.
When choosing your seeds, consider your climate and personal preferences. If you’re unsure, consulting with a local nursery or garden center can provide valuable guidance.
Preparing Your Growing Space
Arugula thrives in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Here’s how to prepare your growing space:
- Soil Preparation: Choose a sunny location in your garden or a container with good drainage. Amend the soil with compost or aged manure to improve its fertility and structure.
- Direct Sowing: Arugula seeds are small, so direct sowing is the preferred method. Scatter the seeds thinly over the prepared soil, lightly covering them with a thin layer of soil.
- Container Gardening: If you’re growing arugula in containers, select pots that are at least 12 inches wide and deep. Fill them with a good quality potting mix and follow the same direct sowing instructions as above.
Sowing Your Arugula Seeds
Sowing arugula seeds is a straightforward process:
- Timing: Arugula can be sown directly in the ground in early spring or late summer. However, in most regions, it can be grown year-round as long as temperatures are above freezing.
- Spacing: Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and 6-8 inches apart. If you are sowing in rows, keep the rows 12 inches apart.
- Watering: After sowing, water the seeds gently but thoroughly. Keep the soil consistently moist until germination.
Germination and Early Growth
Arugula seeds typically germinate within 5-10 days. During this period, it’s crucial to maintain consistent moisture and protect the seedlings from harsh weather conditions.
- Watering: Water your arugula seedlings regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
- Thinning: Once the seedlings have a few true leaves, thin them out to ensure proper spacing. Leave the strongest seedlings and remove the weaker ones.
Caring for Your Arugula Plants
Arugula is a fast-growing plant, and with a little care, it will reward you with delicious harvests.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells.
- Weeding: Regularly remove any weeds that compete with your arugula for water and nutrients.
- Fertilizing: Arugula is a light feeder, but you can give it a boost with a balanced liquid fertilizer every few weeks.
Harvesting Your Arugula
Arugula is ready to harvest about 3-4 weeks after sowing. You can harvest individual leaves as needed, or cut the entire plant at the base.
- Harvesting: Cut the leaves at the base of the plant, leaving a few inches of stem. This encourages new growth and ensures a continuous harvest.
- Storage: Store your harvested arugula in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to a week.
The End of the Harvest: Arugula’s Life Cycle
Arugula is a cool-season crop. As the weather warms, it will bolt, meaning it will produce flowers and seeds. While this is a natural part of the plant’s life cycle, it can affect the flavor and texture of the leaves. To prevent bolting, you can harvest the leaves regularly and keep the soil consistently moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I grow arugula indoors?
A: Yes, arugula can be successfully grown indoors in a sunny windowsill or under grow lights. Choose a container with good drainage and use a high-quality potting mix.
Q: How often should I water my arugula?
A: Water your arugula regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering will depend on the weather and the size of your container.
Q: What are the signs of an overwatered arugula plant?
A: Overwatering can lead to root rot and yellowing leaves. If you notice these signs, reduce watering and improve drainage.
Q: Can I save arugula seeds for next year?
A: Yes, you can save arugula seeds from your plants. Allow the seed pods to fully mature and dry on the plant. Then, collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.
Q: What are the benefits of growing your own arugula?
A: Growing your own arugula allows you to enjoy fresh, flavorful greens without the cost and potential contamination of store-bought produce. It’s also a rewarding and enjoyable experience that can connect you with nature.
A Farewell to the Rocket: A Final Thought
Growing your own arugula is a rewarding experience that can add a burst of flavor to your meals and bring a sense of satisfaction to your gardening efforts. With the right seeds, a little care, and a sprinkle of patience, you’ll be enjoying your own fresh arugula in no time. So, get out there, plant your seeds, and watch your rocket take off!
