Arugula Planting Dates Alaska

Arugula, also known as rocket, is a nutritious leafy green packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with calcium and iron. This peppery green is a favorite in many kitchens, commonly found in salads, sandwiches, and various dishes.

Best Planting Times

Planting Method	Activity	Recommended Dates
Outdoor Planting	Direct Sowing	April 15 – June 15
	Succession Planting	Every 2-3 weeks during spring
Greenhouse Planting	Year-round	Adjust planting based on temperature inside the greenhouse

Planting Conditions

Understanding the local climate is crucial for successful arugula cultivation. With USDA Hardiness Zones mostly ranging from 1 to 4, planning your planting dates accordingly helps achieve healthier growth despite Alaskan weather conditions.

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Useful Tools for Starting Arugula Indoors

Using the right tools is essential for better growth and efficiency.

Seeds

Selecting quality seeds is vital for successful germination. The ‘Astro’ variety is particularly popular for its vigorous growth and delicious, nutty flavor. This all-season variety is perfect for Alaskan gardens.

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

Planting Trays

Utilizing planting trays allows for organized seedling growth, providing ample space before transplanting outside. This boosts efficiency and contributes to the success of your plants.

Find Planting Trays on Amazon

Grow Lights

Grow lights are crucial when natural sunlight is limited, providing essential light for strong seedling growth even in less sunny conditions.

Check out Grow Lights on Amazon

Seed Starting Soil

Choosing a light, fine soil specifically for seed starting promotes quick establishment of young roots, enabling healthy plant growth. This simple choice can make a huge difference in seedling success.

Get Seed Starting Soil on Amazon

Average First Frost Dates for Alaska’s Major Cities

For optimal growth and flavor, plant arugula outdoors approximately 2-4 weeks before the expected first frost in the fall.

City	Average First Frost Date
Anchorage	September 15
Fairbanks	September 5
Juneau	September 20
Kodiak	September 25
Nome	August 30

Disclaimer: Frost dates may vary, so monitoring local forecasts is recommended to adjust planting plans accordingly.

Greenhouse Growing

In the colder climate, a greenhouse can significantly enhance arugula growth by providing protection against frost and establishing a stable environment. This controlled setting allows for year-round cultivation, resulting in a more consistent harvest and extending the growing season.

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


Check the latest price on Amazon.

Fertilizer

For healthy arugula production, using fertilizer is beneficial as it helps improve soil nutrition and supports robust plant growth.

Check out Fertilizer on Amazon

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Other planting guides for Alaska:

Cucumber Planting in Alaska

Kale Planting in Alaska

Pumpkin Planting in Alaska

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

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

• Keep the soil evenly moist by watering consistently.
• Water at the base of the plants to reduce leaf wetness and minimize disease risks.

Fertilizing

• Use a balanced fertilizer upon planting and again when true leaves emerge.

Pest and Disease Management

• Keep an eye on pests like aphids; proactive management is essential.
• Employ organic or integrated pest management methods to safeguard crops.

Harvesting

• Harvest leaves once they reach approximately 3-6 inches in length.
• Regular harvesting encourages growth and extends the gathering season.

In my garden, I aim to plant arugula in both spring and early fall for the best outcomes. The plant favors cooler conditions, so if you can’t start from seeds, consider obtaining young plants from local stores.

If you’re uncertain about harvest readiness, look for leaves growing at least 2-3 inches. Regular picking also encourages further growth and prolongs your harvest period. Pay attention to pest activity, like aphids, and manage them quickly. With the right care, cultivating arugula becomes a fulfilling endeavor that adds a zesty touch to your culinary creations.

Starting Arugula Indoors

In Alaska (Zone 3b), commence indoor arugula seed starting from late April to mid-May. This timing ensures that seedlings are robust and ready for transplantation outdoors around late May to early June, once the frost risk has significantly diminished.

Transplanting Arugula Seedlings

Transplant arugula seedlings outdoors from June 1 to June 15. Make sure the soil temperature has consistently reached above 45°F. Space the seedlings approximately 6-12 inches apart in rows that are at least 12-18 inches apart for optimal growth and air circulation.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

• Ensure consistent watering to keep the soil evenly moist, especially as Alaska can have varied weather conditions impacting moisture levels.
• Water at the base of the plants to minimize leaf wetness and reduce the likelihood of diseases.

Fertilizing

• Use a balanced fertilizer during planting and throughout the growing season as needed, especially if the soil quality is poor. Adding compost can help enhance soil fertility.

Pest and Disease Management

• Regularly check for pests such as aphids and caterpillars. In Alaska’s cooler climate, the chance of disease is lower, but vigilance is still important.
• Utilize organic pest management techniques to safeguard your arugula plants effectively.

Harvesting

• Harvest arugula leaves when they are young and tender for the best flavor. Regular harvesting encourages new growth and extends the harvesting period.

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.

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