Vegetable Grow Guides
How to Grow Organic Arugula from Seed
Eruca vesicaria
About Arugula
Arugula (rocket) is a fast cool-season green with a peppery bite. It is listed once in this book, under vegetables — the same plant is sometimes sold as an herb. Sow it often; a short row every two weeks keeps salads coming.
When to Plant
Direct-sow 2–4 weeks before your last spring frost, and again in late summer for a fall crop. Arugula prefers cool weather (45–65°F). In heat it bolts quickly.
How to Plant
Sow ¼ inch deep, 1 inch apart; thin to 4–6 inches. Rows 6–12 inches. Keep the bed evenly moist. Partial shade in warm climates delays bolting. Works in containers 6 inches deep.
When to Harvest
Begin cutting baby leaves at 2–3 inches, about 20–30 days after sowing. Harvest before the plant starts to bolt — once a flower stalk rises, leaves turn hot and tough. Cut-and-come-again, or pull whole plants. Flowers are edible.