Arugula Planting Dates Alabama

Arugula Planting Dates in Alabama

Arugula, also known as rocket, is a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. This peppery green is cherished in various dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and pasta.

Best Planting Times

Planting Method	Activity	Recommended Dates
Outdoor Planting	Direct Sowing	September 1 – November 15
	Succession Planting	Every 2-3 weeks during fall
Greenhouse Planting	Year-round	Adjust based on temperature control

Planting Conditions

The growing season is extended in Alabama’s warm climate, which is beneficial for cultivating arugula. The various USDA Hardiness Zones, ranging from 7 to 8, highlight the importance of tailoring planting conditions for optimal growth.

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Useful Tools for Starting Arugula Indoors

Employing effective tools can enhance your seed-starting experience.

Seeds

High-quality seeds ensure superior germination and robust plants. Choosing quality seeds will set up your arugula for successful growth right from the start.

For perennial varieties, consider the wild rocket type which is spicier and returns each growing season.

The Astro variant is widely favored due to its vigorous growth, ability to be harvested repeatedly, and delightful nutty flavor.

You can find Astro Arugula Seeds on Amazon here: https://amzn.to/4gTTIgT

Planting Trays

Planting trays help organize seedlings while allowing ample space for growth before transplanting outdoors, increasing efficiency and success rates.

Find Planting Trays on Amazon

Grow Lights

Grow lights are essential for providing adequate lighting to seedlings, especially in low-light conditions.

Check out Grow Lights on Amazon

Seed Starting Soil

Using light, specialized soil designed for seed starting can help young plants develop strong roots and promote healthy growth.

Get Seed Starting Soil on Amazon

Average First Frost Dates for Major Cities in Alabama

When planting arugula outdoors in Alabama, aim to do so approximately 2-4 weeks before the anticipated first frost date in late autumn for optimal growth and flavor.

City	Average First Frost Date
Birmingham	November 15
Huntsville	November 20
Mobile	December 1
Montgomery	November 25
Florence	November 10

Disclaimer: Frost dates are averages, and real conditions may differ. Monitoring local forecasts is recommended to adjust planting decisions accordingly.

Greenhouse Growing

In Alabama, greenhouses can effectively allow for arugula cultivation during hotter months by providing a controlled environment. They can help insulate plants from excessive heat while maintaining consistent moisture, which is vital for arugula’s growth. Moreover, utilizing a greenhouse can significantly extend the growing season.

This 10×12 FT Greenhouse from HOWE is currently available at Amazon for $999.00.


Check the latest price on Amazon.

Fertilizer

To ensure robust growth of arugula in Alabama, it is important to use appropriate fertilizers. Quality fertilizer can replenish nutrients in the soil, leading to vigorous plant health.

Check out Fertilizer on Amazon

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Other planting guides for Alabama:

Kale Planting in Alabama

Broccoli Planting in Alabama

Pumpkin Planting in Alabama

Tomato Planting in Alabama

Any questions on growing arugula? Visit our forum to discuss: Gardening Forum.

Starting Arugula Indoors

In Alabama, you can begin indoor arugula seed starting from late February to early March. This timing ensures that your seedlings are ready for outdoor transplantation by mid-March to early April once the risk of frost has minimized.

Transplanting Arugula Seedlings

Transplant arugula seedlings outdoors from mid-March to early April, ensuring the soil temperature is consistently above 50°F. Space the seedlings 6-12 inches apart in rows that are at least 12-18 inches apart for optimal growth.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

• Provide consistent watering to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during warm spells. Alabama’s humid climate can lead to quicker drying of soil, so regular checks are essential.
• Water at the base of the plants to prevent leaf wetness, which can encourage fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

• Use a balanced fertilizer at the time of planting and again when the first true leaves develop. Incorporating well-rotted compost can improve soil fertility and structure.

Pest and Disease Management

• Keep a watchful eye for common pests such as aphids and slugs, as well as diseases like downy mildew. Regular monitoring is key to maintaining healthy plants.
• Utilize organic pest control methods when necessary to protect your arugula from pests and diseases.

Harvesting

• Harvest arugula leaves when they are young and tender for the best flavor. Regular harvesting can encourage further growth and prevent plants from bolting.

The importance of good soil

Before starting to grow it is important to take a step back and find the condition of the soil in your garden,The optimal soil is a blend that includes the mineral-rich dirt along with organicrich organic matter that plants need to thrive.

In my garden I try to compost as mutch as possible, so I can mix in the nutrient ritch compost in my soil. I use both hot composting of food scraps and cold composting of all organic garden “waste”..
If you dont have the time or space for composting, it is possible to get compost ready to use in garden centers and Community Composting.
You can read more on Community Composting here: https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food/community-composting

If you are uncertain of the quality of your soil, you can get easy to use soil tests at amazon for 17 dollars. Check latest prices here: Soil testing kit.

Also remember to check out how much sunlight your growing area gets, and that the rain drains well. If you treat your soil well and plan you crops according to your climate you will succeed with any plant you want.