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How to grow Arugula

How to grow Arugula

Arugula, otherwise known as rocket or roquette, is a peppery, nutrient-rich green that’s both easy to grow and a joy to eat. Whether tossed into a fresh salad, added to a sandwich, or mixed into a pasta dish, arugula’s spicy flavor enhances any meal. Best of all, it’s a fast-growing crop, making it perfect for gardeners of all experience levels. In this guide, you’ll learn how to plant, care for, and harvest your arugula, so you can enjoy fresh greens straight from your garden.

How to grow arugula from Seed

Starting arugula from seed is straightforward and satisfying. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy, consider adding compost or sand to improve drainage. Sow seeds directly into the garden or containers by scattering them lightly on the soil’s surface. Cover them with a thin layer of soil, about 1/4 inch deep, and water gently to ensure good soil contact. Within a week or two, you’ll see seedlings sprouting. As they grow, thin them out to prevent overcrowding and to give each plant room to thrive. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and watch your arugula flourish.

When to plant arugula

Arugula prefers cool weather, so aim to plant in early spring or late summer. For a continuous harvest, sow seeds every two weeks. Arugula can also grow during the winter months if you're in a warmer climate. Once temperatures rise above 75°F (24°C), arugula tends to bolt—producing flowers and seeds—so plan your planting around your local climate and choose a shady spot or use shade cloth to extend the growing season.

How far apart to plant arugula

Once seedlings have emerged, thin them so they’re spaced about 4 to 6 inches apart. This spacing allows each plant enough room to grow while still maintaining a dense, leafy canopy. If growing multiple rows, leave 12 to 18 inches between rows so you can easily access and harvest the plants.

How much space does arugula need

While arugula is a compact plant, it still benefits from having enough room to spread its leaves. Overcrowded plants may grow smaller and be more susceptible to disease. Make sure each plant has sufficient airflow by maintaining proper spacing and removing any weeds that compete for resources.

Does arugula need a trellis

Arugula is a low-growing leafy green that doesn’t require a trellis. Its small stature and shallow roots make it ideal for planting in garden beds, raised beds, or containers. Simply let it spread naturally without the need for additional support structures.

Where to plant arugula

Arugula thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Choose a location that gets plenty of morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, especially in warmer climates. Raised beds, container gardens, or garden beds with good air circulation all work well. If planting in a garden, consider using row covers to protect young seedlings from pests like flea beetles or aphids, which are attracted to arugula’s tender leaves.

How much sunlight does arugula need

Arugula grows best with about 4 to 6 hours of sunlight per day. In hot regions, partial shade can help keep the plants cooler and prevent bolting. If you’re growing arugula indoors, place it near a sunny window or under a grow light to provide consistent, indirect light. The right balance of sun and shade will encourage healthy growth and a steady harvest of flavorful leaves.

What temperature does arugula grow in

Arugula prefers cooler temperatures between 45°F and 75°F (7°C to 24°C). These conditions allow it to grow steadily without bolting. It can tolerate light frost, which often enhances its flavor by giving the leaves a slightly sweeter taste. In hotter weather, consider planting in a spot with afternoon shade or using a shade cloth to keep the soil cooler and extend the growing season.

Can arugula handle frost

Yes, arugula is frost-tolerant and can withstand temperatures as low as 25°F (-4°C). A light frost can improve the flavor of arugula, making it sweeter and less bitter. If a hard freeze is forecast, consider using a row cover or frost blanket to protect the plants and ensure a longer harvest season.

How much water does arugula need

Arugula thrives in consistently moist soil. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, depending on your local climate and rainfall. If the weather is particularly dry or hot, you may need to water more frequently to prevent the plants from wilting or bolting.

How often should you water arugula

Check the soil moisture regularly. If the top inch of soil feels dry, it’s time to water. In general, water deeply once or twice a week, rather than lightly every day, to encourage strong root growth. In hot or windy conditions, you may need to water more frequently to keep the soil evenly moist.

How long does arugula take to grow

Arugula grows quickly, typically ready for harvest within 30 to 40 days from sowing. Baby greens can be harvested as early as two weeks after planting, while full-sized leaves usually take about a month. For continuous harvests, sow new seeds every few weeks and enjoy fresh arugula throughout the growing season.

When to harvest/pick arugula

Harvest arugula when the leaves reach 4 to 6 inches in length. Baby leaves can be picked sooner for a milder flavor, while mature leaves offer a more robust, peppery taste. To keep the plant productive, harvest individual outer leaves first, leaving the inner growth intact.

How to harvest/pick arugula

Use clean scissors or garden shears to cut leaves about 1 inch above the base of the plant. This method encourages new growth, allowing you to continue harvesting from the same plant. If you prefer, you can pull the entire plant once it reaches maturity and replant new seeds for a fresh crop.

Can you grow arugula indoors

Arugula is well-suited for indoor growing. Place a container in a sunny window that receives at least 4 to 6 hours of light each day. If natural light is limited, supplement with a grow light. Choose a pot with good drainage, use a quality potting mix, and water regularly. Growing arugula indoors allows you to enjoy fresh greens year-round, regardless of outdoor conditions.

How to grow arugula in pots/containers

Select a container at least 6 inches deep with drainage holes. Fill it with nutrient-rich potting soil, and sow seeds directly in the pot. Thin the seedlings to about 4 inches apart once they sprout, and keep the soil evenly moist. Container-grown arugula thrives on patios, balconies, or sunny windowsills. Rotate the container occasionally for even light exposure and enjoy fresh, homegrown greens right from your doorstep.