Sowing and growing arugula

Arugula is a type of lettuce that is slightly different from other types of lettuce in appearance and taste. It is easy to grow and can be grown in a variety of soil types. It also grows relatively quickly and takes about only 30 days from seed to harvest. In addition, it is also a tasty and nutritious addition to any diet.

Arugula: what is it?

Arugula, also called Arugula or Rocket in the US, is a green leafy vegetable popular in Italian cuisine. It has a peppery and slightly bitter taste and the leaves are usually used in salads, sandwiches and pizza.

Arugula is a member of the Brassicaceae family, which includes other cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage. It is a rich source of vitamins A, C and K, as well as folic acid and calcium. It also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can provide health benefits.

Originally from the Mediterranean region, especially Italy. However, it is now popular worldwide and is grown in many different parts of the world, including North America, South America, Europe, Asia and Australia. The Grows well in warm climates and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. In Italy, arugula is often found growing wild among olive trees and vineyards, but it is also grown commercially. Nowadays, arugula is also often grown in greenhouses to be available year-round. In the Dutch climate, it also grows fine from spring.

Sowing arugula in brief

Choose a sunny spot in your garden or on your balcony. Arugula likes full sun, but can also grow in partial shade.
Prepare the soil by making sure it is well loose and mix with compost or other organic materials if necessary.
Sow the arugula seeds about 1 cm deep and about 2 cm apart. If you are sowing multiple rows, keep about 15 cm space between the rows.
Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water. Keep the soil moist, but not too wet, to prevent the seeds from rotting.
Arugula takes about 3-4 weeks to germinate. Once the seedlings are about 5 cm tall, thin them out so that there is about 10 cm between each plant.
Water regularly to ensure the soil stays moist and fertilize the plants to promote growth.
Arugula is ready to be harvested when the leaves are about 10-15 cm long. Cut the leaves off at the base of the plant and let the plants grow on, so you can have multiple harvests.

Arugula is a fast grower and can be harvested within weeks of sowing. It is also possible to grow arugula in pots or containers, which can be handy if you don’t have much space or a vegetable garden.