Home Blog Arugula Plant: How to Grow it in Your Garden or Pot?

Arugula Plant: How to Grow it in Your Garden or Pot?

arugula plant

Ever wondered why arugula is so popular in fancy salads? It’s because of its unique peppery taste. Growing arugula plant is easy and fun, giving you fresh greens from your garden or pot. I’ll share my top tips for growing arugula, whether you’re a pro or a beginner.

Arugula grows fast, ready in about 40 days. This makes it great for picking every few weeks. Let’s explore how to grow arugula and why it’s so good for us.

Arugula Plant 101: What is Arugula Plant?

The arugula plant, also known as rocket or garden rocket, is part of the Brassicaceae family. It grows to be 2 to 3 feet tall. Its leaves are deeply lobed and can be up to 6 inches long. Many wonder, what is arugula plant? It prefers cooler temperatures, best between 45 to 65°F.

Arugula can be planted in spring and late summer for two harvests a year. Plant seeds about a quarter inch deep, with at least one inch of space between them. This spacing helps with growth and air circulation.

Arugula’s botanical name varies by variety. Some popular ones are Astro II, Apollo, Olive Leaf, Italian Rocket, Red Dragon, and Sylvetta. Each variety has its own taste and growth time. In 6 to 8 weeks, you can enjoy fresh leaves, best in the morning.

In summary, arugula is a fast-growing, versatile plant for gardens. It’s great for both new and seasoned gardeners. Knowing about it makes it a rewarding choice for gardeners looking to increase their harvest.

Understanding the Benefits of Arugula Plant

The arugula plant is known for its unique taste and health perks. Eating it often can boost our health. It’s low in calories and sugar, making it great for weight management.

Arugula is packed with vitamins and minerals like calcium, potassium, and vitamins A, C, and K. This makes it a nutritious choice for our diet.

Studies show that eating arugula and other cruciferous veggies can lower cancer risks. It’s also good for the heart and immune system. Its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties help a lot.

A two-cup serving of raw arugula has just 10 calories. It’s rich in vitamin K, which is key for blood clotting and bone health. Manganese in arugula supports metabolism and the nervous system. Eating arugula daily can make you feel like you’re eleven years younger!

Adding arugula to meals is easy. You can use it raw in salads or as a pizza topping. It’s also great cooked in pesto. Its versatility makes it fun to use in the kitchen.

benefits of arugula plant

Nutritional Component Amount per 100g Daily Value (%)
Calories 25 1%
Calcium 32 mg 3%
Vitamin A 490 mcg 55%
Vitamin C 15 mg 17%
Vitamin K 21.8 mcg 27%
Folate 63 mcg 16%

Learning about arugula’s benefits makes me appreciate it more. It’s a great addition to my meals for its health benefits and nutritional value.

Choosing the Right Varieties of Arugula

When picking the best arugula for my garden, I learn a lot. There are wild and cultivated types, each with its own taste. Knowing these differences helps me choose wisely.

Diplotaxis and Eruca are the main types grown. Cultivated types like Ruchetta have unique tastes. Wild types, like Rucola, have their own charm. I think about these differences to pick what I like and what my garden needs.

Some popular arugula varieties include:

  • Astro – A classic variety that matures in about 38 days, known for a sharper flavor once the flowering begins.
  • Garden Tangy – With a spice hint and frilly leaves, this variety reaches maturity in 30-35 days, perfect for Italian dishes.
  • Red Dragon – Takes about 45 days to mature, offers a mild peppery flavor, and showcases beautiful oak-like leaves.
  • Wasabi – Frost-hardy and a quick germinator, it’s the go-to for spring and fall growth.
  • Wild Rocket – Known for its stronger flavor and can grow up to 20 inches, great for pesto.

There are nine top arugula varieties for home gardens. Each one adds something special to growing arugula. My favorite from a recent taste test was Rucola Selvatica A Foglia Di Oliva. It has a nutty flavor with a hint of heat.

Variety Maturation Time Flavor Profile Notable Characteristics
Astro 38 days Sharp, specially after flowering Edible white flowers
Garden Tangy 30-35 days Spicy Frilly edges
Red Dragon 45 days Mild peppery Oak-leaf shaped with red veins
Wasabi 4-5 weeks Pungent Frost-hardy
Wild Rocket 40 days Stronger flavor Ideal for pesto

Arugula Plant: Ideal Growing Conditions

To grow arugula well, you need to know its best growing conditions. It loves well-drained, loamy soil that holds moisture but also drains it well. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. This helps the roots grow strong and the plant stay healthy.

Arugula does best in full sun, needing at least six hours of direct sunlight a day. It can handle partial shade, which is good for hotter places. It’s also very hardy and can handle cold temperatures, making it great for cooler areas.

The best temperature for growing arugula is between 45 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Too much heat or too little space can make the leaves chewy and spicy. To help it grow well, plant them 6 to 8 inches apart. This lets them get enough air and sunlight.

I plant arugula seeds every two weeks to keep a steady supply of fresh greens. It grows fast, from seed to harvest in 40 to 60 days. This makes it a great choice for gardeners looking for quick results.

How to Grow Arugula Plant from Seeds

Growing arugula from seeds is rewarding and adds fresh flavors to your garden. Plant arugula seeds a few weeks before the last frost in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. This green leafy vegetable needs proper care during its growth.

Starting Seeds Indoors vs Outdoors

For indoor planting, place arugula seeds 1/4 inch deep in a rich potting mix. Keep the soil moist until germination, which takes about seven days. For outdoor planting, space seeds an inch apart in rows a foot apart. This gives each plant room to grow.

Best Soil Types for Planting Arugula

The right soil is key for growing arugula. Loamy and well-drained soils are best. To improve the soil, mix in compost or a coffee grounds and dry leaves blend. Prepare the soil a month before planting to ensure it’s rich and ready for growth.

grow arugula plant from seeds

Aspect Details
Sowing Depth 1/4 inch
Germination Time About 7 days
Time to Maturity Approximately 40 days
Optimal Spacing 3 to 4 inches apart
Watering Needs Keep soil consistently moist
Sun Requirement At least 6 hours of direct sunlight
Harvesting Method Trim individual leaves at base

Arugula Plant Care Tips for Healthy Growth

Caring for arugula is key to a thriving garden or container. The right care leads to healthy, robust plants. Watering arugula and ensuring it gets enough sun are essential.

Watering and Moisture Requirements

Arugula needs regular watering to stay healthy. Its shallow roots require consistent soil moisture. I keep the soil moist but not soggy to avoid root rot.

In dry climates, I water my plants in the morning or evening. This reduces evaporation and helps moisture reach the roots. It ensures the arugula gets the water it needs.

Optimal Sun Exposure for Arugula

Arugula needs at least six hours of sunlight daily. I plant it in a spot with morning sun and some afternoon shade. This prevents wilting and delays bolting in hot months.

By balancing light, I get a steady supply of tender, tasty leaves all season.

Arugula Plant Nutrition: What You Need to Know

The arugula plant is packed with nutrients, ranking high among the healthiest foods. It has a score of 604 on the Aggregate Nutritional Density Index (ANDI). This makes it a great choice for those looking to boost their health.

arugula plant nutrition

Arugula is full of vitamins and minerals that are good for you. It’s also rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals, like indoles. These can help fight inflammation and lower the risk of diseases like cancer.

Arugula is a top source of Vitamin A, which is good for your eyes, skin, and immune system. It also has a lot of Vitamin C, which fights off free radicals and helps with blood vessel health. Just two cups of arugula can give you 20% of your daily Vitamin A and 50% of Vitamin K.

Arugula is also very high in Vitamin K, which is great for your bones and brain. It helps your body absorb calcium, which is important for strong bones. Plus, arugula is low in carbs and calories, with less than 5 calories per cup. This makes it a great choice for many diets.

To grow arugula well, using compost in the soil can help. This boosts the plant’s nutrient intake. While arugula needs some nutrients to grow, too much fertilizer isn’t usually needed. Only add more if the leaves start to look pale.

Eating arugula is not only delicious but also good for you. It’s part of the cruciferous family, which is linked to lower heart disease and cancer risks. Knowing about arugula’s nutrition helps me get the most health benefits from it.

Harvesting Arugula: When and How to Do It

Harvesting arugula at the right time is key for the best taste and quality. I pick arugula when the leaves are 2 to 3 inches long. This makes them tender and great for salads. For bigger leaves, I wait until the plant is 6 inches tall.

This usually happens between 20 to 50 days after planting, depending on the type. To keep harvesting, I cut the outer leaves at the base. This helps new growth come from the center.

Best Practices for Harvesting Leaves

Here are some tips for harvesting arugula:

  • Harvest in a cool, dry time like early morning or late evening.
  • Use clean, sharp scissors to avoid damaging the leaves.
  • Cut just above a leaf node for better growth.
  • Harvesting often encourages new leaves to grow.

Methods for Storing Fresh Arugula

After harvesting, I focus on keeping the arugula fresh. Here’s how:

  1. Wrap the leaves in a damp paper towel or cloth and store them in the fridge’s crisper drawer. They stay fresh for up to 5 days.
  2. Or, I store them in a glass jar with an inch of water, like cut flowers. This keeps them fresh for up to a week if I change the water.
  3. If I want to keep arugula longer, I puree it with water, freeze it in ice trays, and use it in smoothies or sauces for 5-6 months. I can also blanch the leaves briefly and freeze them in bags for up to a year.

harvesting arugula

These methods help me harvest arugula efficiently. They also let me enjoy its delicious taste for weeks.

Arugula Plant Recipes: Delicious Ways to Enjoy It

Arugula gives dishes a peppery kick, making it a favorite in my kitchen. I often add it to salads for a flavor boost. Its versatility shines when paired with lemon, parmesan, and olive oil, creating tasty arugula salad ideas.

For a quick salad, I mix arugula with blueberries, parmesan, and a bit of zest. This recipe is easy and healthy, with only 139 calories per serving. It’s ready in just 10 minutes.

There are countless ways to use arugula plant recipes. It’s great on pizza, improving flavor and digestion. I also make arugula pesto by blending blanched arugula with olive oil. It’s perfect for sandwiches, pita bread, or avocado toast.

Arugula is amazing with cheese, tomatoes, meats, and eggs. It balances their rich flavors. This makes it a great choice for brunch or hearty salads, adding freshness to any meal.

In short, arugula makes meals nutritious and delicious. Whether in salads, pizzas, or pesto, it’s a versatile ingredient. Adding these arugula plant recipes to my cooking has opened up new flavors to explore.

Common Pests and Diseases Affecting Arugula Plants

Growing arugula means watching out for pests and diseases. Knowing about these threats helps protect my plants. This way, I can have a great harvest.

Identifying Pests and Their Impact

I always check for pests in my garden. Aphids are a big problem, with three types targeting arugula. Other pests like armyworms and crickets can also harm my plants.

  • Aphids: Small insects that can weaken plants by sucking sap.
  • Armyworms: Caterpillars that feed on arugula leaves, leading to prominent holes.
  • Cabbage loopers: Larvae from owlet moths that cause significant leaf damage.
  • Cutworms: These larvae sever new shoots at the soil level, impacting plant health.

To fight pests, I use natural methods like handpicking and neem oil. Ladybugs and lacewings are also great at controlling pests.

Preventing and Treating Common Diseases

Arugula can get sick too. Bacterial leaf spot and downy mildew are common diseases. Bacterial leaf spot causes spots on leaves and spreads easily. Downy mildew looks like brown flecks with mold underneath.

To stop diseases, I keep my plants dry and well-ventilated. I also make sure they’re not too cold or too hot. Changing what I grow in the same spot helps too.

By watching for pests and diseases, my garden stays healthy. This means I get to enjoy fresh, healthy arugula.

Creating the Perfect Container for Growing Arugula

Container gardening is perfect for those with little space. It lets you grow arugula in pots, saving space and controlling growing conditions. Choosing the right pot size and material is key for a good harvest.

Choosing the Right Size and Material for Pots

The best pots for arugula should be big enough for roots to grow. Look for pots that are 6-8 inches deep and wide. This size lets arugula plants grow well. I like different pot materials for their benefits:

Pot Material Advantages Disadvantages
Clay Excellent drainage, good breathability Heavy, can break easily
Ceramic Attractive design, good moisture retention Heavy and can be expensive
Plastic Lightweight, affordable Poor drainage if not designed properly
Resin Durable, often resembles ceramic May not provide as much breathability

Unglazed clay pots are great because they let moisture evaporate, preventing root rot. In warm places, a self-watering pot makes caring for arugula easier.

Arugula likes slightly acidic soil, with a pH of 6-7. You can check the pH with kits and adjust it if needed. The right pot size and material help arugula grow well and taste great.

Propagation Techniques for Arugula Plants

Propagating arugula plants is both rewarding and fun. Saving seeds is a top method for growing arugula. It lets me keep my favorite varieties coming back every year. When my plants flower and the seed heads turn brown, I harvest them.

I put the seed heads in a paper bag to dry. Then, I gently rub them to release the seeds. Keeping the seeds in a cool, dry spot is key. This way, they stay good for up to six years.

While direct-seeding outdoors is best, some techniques can help. Here are a few:

  • Space seeds 10 inches apart: This helps each plant grow well, with enough air around it.
  • Use rooting hormone: It can help the roots grow when you’re propagating arugula stems.
  • Provide drainage: It’s important to keep the soil moist but not soggy to avoid seedling problems.
  • Allow personal space: When moving water-rooted arugula plants to soil, give them 3-5 inches of space in good potting mix.

When transplanting, place arugula rows 16-18 inches apart. Arugula has a shallow root system and likes consistent water. But, too much water can cause root rot. These tips will help you grow a lot of arugula.

Arugula Plant Uses Beyond Culinary Applications

Arugula is more than just a tasty ingredient in the kitchen. Its leaves have health benefits too. They have anti-inflammatory properties, which is great for those focusing on health.

I love trying out arugula plant uses in different ways. It’s amazing in salads and smoothies, adding a unique taste and nutrients. Even using arugula in skin treatments can improve skin health.

Arugula is also good for your digestion. It’s full of fiber, which helps your body absorb nutrients better. Eating arugula can also lower the risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. It’s incredible how a simple plant can make such a big difference in our health.

Quantity Range Discount on Arugula Seeds
5 – 9 $1.25
10 – 14 $2.50
15 – 19 $3.75
85 – 89 $21.25
95 or more $23.75

Arugula is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, which are good for you. It’s a favorite in Italian cooking, adding flavor to many dishes. I enjoy finding new ways to use arugula in my cooking, enjoying its taste and health perks.

When you order arugula seeds, they usually arrive in 3-8 business days. But, shipping is not available to Australia, New Zealand, Russia, and Brazil because of customs rules. Exploring the many uses of arugula has made my meals and health better.

Seasonal Growing Tips for Arugula

Understanding when to plant arugula is key to success. I’ve learned that early spring and late summer are the best times. These periods offer temperatures between 45°F and 55°F, perfect for growth without bolting.

In places like Arizona’s low desert, start seeds indoors from September to January. You can plant them outside from mid-August to January. Following these tips can greatly boost your harvest. Also, planting every 2-3 weeks keeps a steady supply of fresh arugula.

For arugula care, watch the soil moisture, more so in cooler months. I use row covers to keep it warm and moist. This method extends the growing season and lets me enjoy homegrown arugula all year.

FAQ

What is the best time to plant arugula?

Planting arugula in early spring and late summer is best. This avoids the hot midsummer that can make plants bolt.

How long does it take for arugula to grow?

Arugula grows to harvest size in about 40 days. This depends on the variety and growing conditions.

Can I grow arugula in containers?

Yes! Arugula does well in pots. Make sure your pot is at least 6 inches deep and has good drainage.

What diseases affect arugula plants?

Bacterial leaf spot is a common disease. It weakens the plant. Regular checks and good hygiene can prevent outbreaks.

How should I water my arugula plants?

Keep the soil moist but not wet. Water in the morning or evening, more during dry spells.

What are some common pests that target arugula?

Aphids and flea beetles are common pests. Check your plants often and use organic methods if needed.

What nutrients do arugula need for optimal growth?

Arugula loves nitrogen-rich soil. Adding compost before planting helps with leaf growth.

What are some delicious recipes to use arugula in?

Use fresh arugula in salads, as a pizza topping, or in pesto. It’s great with lemon, parmesan, and olive oil.

How can I prevent my arugula from bolting?

Keep them cool and shaded during summer. This helps prevent bolting.

How do I best harvest arugula?

Cut the outer leaves to encourage new growth. Harvest when leaves are about 3 inches long.

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