Arugula Planting Dates Michigan

Arugula, also referred to as rocket, is a nutrient-rich leafy green that boasts vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron. Its peppery flavor makes it a cherished ingredient in salads, sandwiches, and various pasta dishes.

Best Planting Times

Planting Method	Activity	Recommended Dates
Outdoor Planting	Direct Sowing	April 1 – June 15
	Succession Planting	Every 2-3 weeks until mid-June
Greenhouse Planting	Year-round	Adjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Planting Conditions

The growing season for arugula in cooler climates generally spans from early spring to late fall. With USDA Hardiness Zones ranging from 3 to 6, understanding the optimal conditions for growth is key to producing healthy plants.

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Useful Tools for Starting Arugula Indoors

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

Seeds

Choosing quality seeds ensures better germination rates and healthier plants. Starting with high-quality seeds gives arugula the best chance to thrive right from the beginning.

Look for wild rocket types for a perennial option, which offers a spicier flavor and returns each year. The Astro type is the most common, known for being vigorous and producing long, silky leaves with a nutty flavor.

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

Planting Trays

Using planting trays allows you to keep seedlings organized, giving them adequate space to grow before transplanting outdoors. This method promotes efficiency and improves the chances of developing strong, healthy plants.

Find Planting Trays on Amazon

Grow Lights

Grow lights are essential for ensuring seedlings receive enough light if natural sunlight is limited. They provide necessary light for strong, healthy growth, even in less-than-ideal conditions.

Check out Grow Lights on Amazon

Seed Starting Soil

Using a light, fine soil specifically designed for seed starting helps young roots establish quickly and promotes healthy growth, giving seedlings the best possible start.

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Average First Frost Dates for Michigan’s Major Cities

When planting outdoors, aim to sow arugula approximately 2-4 weeks before the expected first frost date in late fall to ensure the best growth and flavor.

City	Average First Frost Date
Detroit	October 15
Grand Rapids	October 12
Ann Arbor	October 8
Lansing	October 10
Flint	October 15

Disclaimer: Frost dates are based on averages and actual conditions may vary. It is recommended to monitor local forecasts and adjust planting decisions accordingly.

Greenhouse Growing

Using a greenhouse in colder climates can provide much-needed protection for arugula from harsh temperatures. This controlled environment allows for extended growing seasons, enabling year-round cultivation while ensuring consistent temperature and humidity levels. Additionally, a greenhouse minimizes the impact of weather fluctuations, promoting healthier plants.

This 10×12 FT Greenhouse from HOWE can be found on Amazon for $999.00.


Check the latest price on Amazon.

Fertilizer

Other planting guides for Michigan:

Broccoli Planting in Michigan

Kale Planting in Michigan

Pumpkin Planting in Michigan

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

For optimal growth, incorporating quality fertilizer can boost yields and maintain healthy plants. Fertilizers replenish soil nutrients and support vigorous plant development.

Check out Fertilizer on Amazon

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Starting Arugula Indoors

In Michigan (Zone 5b), begin indoor arugula seed starting between March 1 and April 1. This timeline ensures healthy seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation starting from mid-April to early May once the risk of frost has passed.

Transplanting Arugula Seedlings

Transplant arugula seedlings outdoors from April 15 to May 1, ensuring the soil temperature is consistently above 50°F. Space the seedlings 6-12 inches apart in rows with at least 12 inches between rows for optimal growth.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

• Provide consistent and deep watering to maintain evenly moist soil. Michigan’s varying climate requires regular monitoring for soil moisture to prevent drying out.
• Water at the base of plants to avoid leaf wetness, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

• Apply a balanced fertilizer at the time of planting and again during the early growth phase. Incorporating compost before planting can enhance soil fertility and structure.

Pest and Disease Management

• Regularly monitor for common pests like aphids, flea beetles, and downy mildew. Michigan’s humid summers may increase the risk of fungal diseases.
• Implement organic or integrated pest management methods to protect arugula plants from pests and diseases.

Harvesting

• Harvest arugula leaves when they reach 4-6 inches in height. Regular harvesting encourages new growth and prolongs the harvest season.

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.