Arugula
Eruca vesicaria
Arugula is a fast-growing peppery salad green that thrives in cool weather and can be harvested repeatedly as cut-and-come-again leaves. It bolts in summer heat but self-seeds freely for successive crops.
Growing Conditions
Sunlight
Partial Shade
Water Needs
Moderate
Soil
Well-draining loam; pH 6.0–7.0
Spacing
6 inches after thinning
Days to Maturity
35–45 days from sowing
Growing Zones
Thrives in USDA Zones 3–10
Companion Planting
When to Plant
Direct Sow
3–5 weeks before last frost; succession sow every 2 weeks
Harvest
35–45 days; pick leaves before flowers appear for best flavour
Organic Growing Tips
Cover with fine mesh or row fabric to exclude flea beetles, which riddle leaves with tiny holes.
Grow in partial shade during summer to extend the season and delay bolting.
Allow a few plants to flower and set seed for a self-sustaining, low-maintenance patch.
Succession sow every 2 weeks for continuous tender leaves through spring and autumn.
Common Pests
- Flea Beetle
- Aphids
- Slugs
- Cabbage White Caterpillar
All pest management in Garden uses safe, organic, non-toxic methods only. No synthetic pesticides, ever.