Arugula, also known as rocket, roquette, or Eruca sativa, is a fast-growing, nutrient-rich leafy green that brings a peppery zing to salads, sandwiches, and pestos.
As a member of the Brassicaceae family (alongside broccoli, kale, and mustard greens), arugula thrives in cool seasons and is one of the easiest vegetables to grow – making it a favorite for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike.
Whether you’re gardening in containers, raised beds, or traditional rows, this detailed, SEO-optimized guide will walk you through every step of growing arugula – from selecting the right varieties and sowing seeds to caring for plants, harvesting, and troubleshooting.
Why Grow Arugula?
- Fast-growing: Ready to harvest in as little as 3–4 weeks
- Cold-hardy: Thrives in spring and fall weather
- Nutrient-dense: High in vitamins A, C, and K, plus calcium and iron
- Flavorful: Peppery, nutty taste that elevates any dish
- Low-maintenance: Perfect for containers and small-space gardening
Best Arugula Varieties to Grow
There are two main types of arugula: cultivated arugula (Eruca sativa) and wild arugula (Diplotaxis tenuifolia). Each offers distinct flavor and growth characteristics.
1. Cultivated Arugula (Eruca sativa)
- Milder flavor
- Larger, more tender leaves
- Faster to mature
Top Varieties:
- Astro – Quick-growing, mild flavor, ideal for baby greens
- Roquette – Standard arugula with deeply lobed leaves
- Apollo – Slow to bolt, great for warmer climates
2. Wild Arugula (Diplotaxis tenuifolia)
- Spicier, more intense flavor
- Smaller, deeply serrated leaves
- More heat-tolerant
Top Varieties:
- Sylvetta – Peppery, long-lasting flavor, resists bolting
- Wasabi – Unique horseradish flavor, great for mature leaves
When to Plant Arugula
Arugula is a cool-season crop best grown in early spring and fall. It prefers temperatures between 45°F and 75°F (7°C to 24°C).
Spring Planting:
Sow seeds 2–4 weeks before the last frost date
Fall Planting:
Sow seeds 6–8 weeks before the first expected frost
In mild climates, arugula can grow nearly year-round with protection.
How to Grow Arugula: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Choose the Right Location
Arugula grows best in full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, some afternoon shade helps prevent bolting.
2. Prepare the Soil
- pH: 6.0 to 7.0
- Soil: Loose, well-draining, rich in organic matter
Improve soil with:
- Compost or aged manure
- Worm castings for additional nutrients
3. Sow the Seeds
Direct Sowing:
- Spacing: Sow seeds ¼ inch deep, 1 inch apart
- Rows: Space rows 10–12 inches apart
- Thinning: Once seedlings are 2 inches tall, thin to 4–6 inches apart
Container Growing:
- Use a minimum 6-inch deep pot
- Ideal for balconies or small patios
4. Watering
Arugula prefers consistent moisture to stay tender and flavorful.
- Keep soil evenly moist
- Avoid overhead watering to reduce leaf diseases
- Mulch to conserve moisture and prevent weeds
5. Fertilizing
Arugula is a light feeder but benefits from occasional nutrition boosts.
- Use a balanced, organic fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) every 2–3 weeks
- Avoid excess nitrogen – it may promote rapid growth but reduce flavor
6. Weed Control and Mulching
Mulching helps:
- Suppress weeds
- Retain soil moisture
- Keep leaves clean from soil splash
Use straw, shredded leaves, or compost as mulch around seedlings.
Succession Planting for a Continuous Harvest
Arugula grows fast and can be harvested frequently. To ensure a steady supply:
- Sow new seeds every 10–14 days
- Continue sowing until temps rise above 75°F in spring or fall frosts arrive
This method ensures you always have fresh, tender greens ready to pick.
How to Harvest Arugula
Baby Greens:
- Ready in 20–25 days
- Cut outer leaves when they are 2–4 inches long
- Ideal for salads and sandwiches
Mature Leaves:
- Ready in 35–45 days
- Pick individual leaves or cut the entire plant 1 inch above soil to encourage regrowth
Tip: Harvest early in the morning for best flavor and crispness.
How to Store and Use Arugula
Storing:
- Rinse and dry thoroughly
- Store in a zip-top bag with a paper towel inside
- Keeps fresh in the refrigerator for 5–7 days
Using Arugula:
- Fresh in salads, wraps, or pesto
- Tossed on top of pizza or pasta
- Blended into smoothies or soups
Common Pests and Problems
1. Flea Beetles
- Tiny black beetles that create holes in leaves
- Control with row covers or neem oil
2. Aphids
- Found on the undersides of leaves
- Rinse off with water or use insecticidal soap
3. Slugs and Snails
- Especially active in damp areas
- Use crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth around plants
4. Bolting (Premature Flowering)
- Triggered by hot temperatures or long daylight
- Use shade cloth during heat waves
- Grow bolt-resistant varieties in warmer zones
Growing Arugula Indoors
Yes, arugula grows well indoors, especially in cool climates or during winter.
Tips for Indoor Arugula:
- Use a sunny south-facing window or grow lights
- Maintain indoor temps between 60–70°F
- Use a shallow container with drainage
- Water regularly but don’t over-saturate
Companion Planting with Arugula
Arugula pairs well with:
- Carrots – Deep roots break up soil for shallow-rooted arugula
- Radishes – Help deter pests
- Lettuce – Shares similar growing needs
- Onions/Garlic – Repel aphids and beetles
Avoid planting near:
Other brassicas (cabbage, broccoli) which share similar pests and nutrient needs
Saving Arugula Seeds
Let a few plants bolt and form seed pods. Once pods are dry and brown:
- Collect pods into a paper bag
- Let them dry fully indoors for 1–2 weeks
- Crush pods and separate seeds
- Store seeds in a cool, dry place for next season
Health Benefits of Arugula
- Anti-inflammatory: Contains glucosinolates with detoxifying properties
- Heart-healthy: Rich in folate and antioxidants
- Bone strength: High in vitamin K and calcium
- Immune support: Packed with vitamin C
Arugula offers a flavorful way to boost your diet with disease-fighting nutrients.
By choosing the right variety, planting at the right time, and giving your plants consistent care, you can enjoy fresh arugula from your garden or windowsill for much of the year.
