Arugula Roquette is a robust, peppery green loved for its bold flavor and versatility in the kitchen. Both the leaves and delicate white flowers add depth to salads, sandwiches, and fish dishes. Its upright growth habit makes it easy to harvest, and successive plantings ensure fresh greens well into fall. A favorite for gourmet chefs and home cooks alike.
Arugula Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)
- Timing: Sow arugula seeds outdoors in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked, or in late summer for a fall harvest. Arugula thrives in cool weather and tolerates light frost.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot or partial shade in hotter climates. Arugula grows best in fertile, well-draining soil.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches and incorporate compost to improve fertility. Arugula prefers soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
- Planting Seeds:
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them 1-2 inches apart in rows.
- Thin seedlings to 4-6 inches apart once they are a few inches tall for proper growth.
- Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist until seeds germinate, which typically takes 5-10 days. Arugula requires consistent moisture to prevent bolting.
Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)
- Timing: Start arugula seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date.
- Containers: Use seed trays or small pots with good drainage, filled with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix.
- Planting:
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, scattering them thinly over the soil surface.
- Cover lightly with soil and mist gently to keep the soil evenly moist.
- Germination:
- Maintain a temperature of 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal germination.
- Expect seedlings to emerge within 5-10 days.
- Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors when soil temperatures are above 45 degrees Fahrenheit and plants have at least 2-3 sets of true leaves. Space plants 4-6 inches apart in rows.
General Care Tips for Arugula
- Sunlight: Provide full sun for best growth, though arugula tolerates partial shade, especially in warmer climates.
- Watering: Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Consistent moisture helps prevent bolting and ensures tender leaves.
- Fertilizing: Enrich the soil with compost before planting. Arugula is a light feeder and typically does not require additional fertilization during its short growing season.
- Weeding: Keep the area weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and water. Be careful not to disturb arugula’s shallow roots when weeding.
- Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for flea beetles or aphids, which can be treated with organic insecticidal soap if necessary. Proper spacing helps prevent fungal diseases.
- Harvesting:
- For Baby Leaves: Harvest leaves when they are 2-3 inches tall, typically 20-30 days after sowing.
- For Mature Leaves: Pick outer leaves as needed, leaving the inner leaves to grow. Entire plants can also be harvested by cutting at the base.
- Storage: Store fresh arugula leaves in a plastic bag or damp paper towel in the refrigerator for up to a week. Wash leaves just before use.
