Arugula Planting Dates Arizona

Arugula Planting Dates in Arizona

Arugula, also known as rocket, is a nutritious leafy green packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with essential minerals like calcium and iron. This peppery green is a favorite in various culinary applications, including salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes.

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 planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Planting Conditions

The warm climate in Arizona provides an extended growing season, making it ideal for arugula cultivation. It is important to be aware of your local USDA Hardiness Zone for best planting conditions.

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Useful Tools for Starting Arugula Indoors

Using the right tools can save you time and increase your success rate.

Seeds

Quality seeds are crucial for healthy growth. Starters should seek out high-quality options to give arugula the best chance of thriving. The most commonly used variety is Astro, known for its vigorous growth and nutty flavor.

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

Planting Trays

Planting trays help you organize seedlings and ensure adequate space for growth before transplanting outdoors. This method enhances efficiency and plant vitality.

Find Planting Trays on Amazon

Grow Lights

Grow lights are essential if natural sunlight is insufficient. They provide the necessary light for seedlings to develop strong and healthy, especially in less-than-ideal conditions.

Check out Grow Lights on Amazon

Seed Starting Soil

Utilizing fine, light soil designed for seed starting promotes healthy root establishment. This ensures seedlings receive an optimal start.

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Average First Frost Dates for Arizona’s Major Cities

To ensure optimal growth and flavor, plant arugula outdoors approximately 2-4 weeks before each city’s average first frost date in late autumn.

City	Average First Frost Date
Phoenix	November 15
Tucson	November 20
Flagstaff	September 30
Yuma	December 15
Lake Havasu City	December 10

Disclaimer: Frost dates are average estimates, and actual conditions may vary. It is advisable to monitor local forecasts and adapt planting schedules accordingly.

Greenhouse Growing

Utilizing a greenhouse in Arizona can effectively shield arugula from extreme heat. This controlled environment enhances year-round cultivation and stabilizes temperatures, particularly beneficial during hotter months. Additionally, greenhouses greatly extend the growing season.

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


Check the latest price on Amazon.

Fertilizer

Using fertilizer is crucial for optimal growth. It replenishes soil nutrients and fosters robust plant development in Arizona’s unique growing conditions.

Check out Fertilizer on Amazon

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Other planting guides for Arizona:

Kale Planting in Arizona

Broccoli Planting in Arizona

Pumpkin Planting in Arizona

Tomato Planting in Arizona

Any questions on growing arugula? Visit our forum to discuss: Growing Arugula.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

• Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist, especially vital in arid climates.
• Water at the base to minimize leaf wetness, reducing fungal disease risks.

Fertilizing

• Apply a balanced fertilizer during planting and again when true leaves emerge. Incorporating compost will boost soil health.

Pest and Disease Management

• Regular monitoring for pests like aphids is essential, especially in warmer conditions.
• Utilize organic pest management strategies to safeguard arugula crops.

Harvesting

• Harvest leaves when they reach 3-6 inches to encourage continued growth.

In my experience, planting arugula in both spring and fall yields the best results. It thrives in cooler weather, and young plants are often available at local nurseries for those short on time.

By observing leaf size and regular harvesting, you can prolong your arugula growing season. Keep an eye on pests like aphids, ensuring proper management. With attention and care, cultivation can be a gratifying process that enhances your meals!

Starting Arugula Indoors

In Arizona (Zone 9b), begin indoor arugula seed starting between September 1 and October 1. This timeline ensures healthy seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation starting from late October to early November when temperatures are cooler.

Transplanting Arugula Seedlings

Transplant arugula seedlings outdoors from late October to early November, when soil temperatures are consistently above 60°F. Space seedlings 6-12 inches apart in rows with at least 12 inches between rows to promote optimal growth.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

• Provide consistent and deep watering to maintain evenly moist soil. Arizona’s arid climate necessitates regular watering to prevent soil dryness.
• Water at the base of plants to avoid leaf wetness, which can lead to issues in humid conditions.

Fertilizing

• Apply a balanced fertilizer during planting and after a few weeks of growth. Incorporating compost before planting can enhance soil fertility and texture.

Pest and Disease Management

• Regularly monitor for common pests such as aphids and flea beetles. Vigilance is key in the desert climate.
• Implement organic or integrated pest management methods to protect arugula plants from pests and diseases.

Harvesting

• Harvest arugula leaves when they reach the desired size, typically around 4-6 inches long. Regular harvesting encourages new leaf growth and prevents the plant 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.