Arugula

Planting arugula

Sow directly every 2 weeks in spring and again in late summer. Heat and long days push it to bolt, so plan short, repeated crops.

Planting details

• Baby leaves are ready around 3 weeks
• Seed depth: about 1/4 inch
• Broadcast or sow rows; thin lightly for cut leaves

Growing requirements

Arugula wants cool weather, moist fertile soil, and a little shade as days warm. It is one of the fastest greens you can grow, which makes it ideal for filling gaps between slower crops.

Harvesting and care

Cut outer leaves or shear the whole plant an inch above the crown; it regrows for a second cutting. Young leaves are mild, older ones get sharp.

Common mistakes

• Sowing once, then running out when the patch bolts
• Letting plants mature in heat, which makes leaves unpleasantly strong
• Underwatering, which speeds bolting and intensifies bitterness

Companion plants

Sow between young tomatoes and peppers or at bed edges; it finishes before slower neighbors need the room.