Arugula, also known as rocket, is a nutrient-rich leafy green that is popular for its peppery flavor in salads, sandwiches, and various dishes. It is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals like calcium and iron, making it a great addition to any diet.
Best Planting Times
| Planting Method | Activity | Recommended Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Outdoor Planting | Direct Sowing | April 15 – May 30 |
| Succession Planting | Every 2-3 weeks during spring and fall | |
| Greenhouse Planting | Year-round | Adjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse |
Planting Conditions
The climate supports a growing season that is optimal for arugula cultivation, especially in the spring and fall months. Understanding local frost dates and climatic conditions greatly benefits the planting strategy for a successful harvest.
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Useful Tools for Starting Arugula Indoors
Having the right equipment can improve your planting success significantly.
Seeds
Investing in quality seeds is essential for robust plant growth. High-quality arugula seeds will yield strong plants that thrive from the beginning.
For perennial growth, the wild rocket variety is recommended. This variety returns each year, providing a spicy kick to your meals. The most common type for gardens is the Astro variant.
This vigorous cut-and-come-again variety is known for its long, silky leaves and nutty flavor.
You can find Astro Arugula Seeds on Amazon here: https://amzn.to/4gTTIgT
Planting Trays
Organizing seedlings in planting trays ensures ample space for growth before transplanting outdoors, leading to more efficient growth and healthier plants.
Find Planting Trays on Amazon
Grow Lights
Grow lights play a crucial role in seedling development, providing the necessary light spectrum for healthy growth in less than ideal lighting conditions.
Check out Grow Lights on Amazon
Seed Starting Soil
Utilizing a quality seed starting soil blend can enhance root establishment and promote vigorous growth among your seedlings, ensuring they get the best start possible.
Get Seed Starting Soil on Amazon
Average First Frost Dates for North Dakota’s Major Cities
To optimize growth and flavor, arugula should be planted outdoors approximately 2-4 weeks before the average first frost date in autumn.
| City | Average First Frost Date |
|---|---|
| Fargo | October 1 |
| Bismarck | September 15 |
| Grand Forks | September 30 |
| Minot | September 10 |
| Jamestown | September 25 |
Disclaimer: These frost dates are averages and actual conditions can vary. Always monitor local weather forecasts to adapt planting schedules appropriately.
Greenhouse Growing
In the colder months, using a greenhouse in this region offers protection against harsh temperatures and extends the growing season significantly. This creates a more controlled environment, allowing the cultivation of arugula year-round. Managing temperatures effectively can lead to healthier plants and higher yields.
This 10×12 FT Greenhouse from HOWE is currently available on Amazon for $999.00.
Check the latest price on Amazon.
Fertilizer
To achieve optimal growth, supplementing arugula with high-quality fertilizer is essential. This replenishes soil nutrients and supports vigorous plant development.
Check out Fertilizer on Amazon
Other planting guides for North Dakota:
Broccoli Planting in North Dakota
Pumpkin Planting in North Dakota
Any questions on growing arugula? Visit our forum to discuss: Gardening Forum.
Starting Arugula Indoors
In North Dakota (Zone 3b), begin indoor arugula seed starting between March 15 and April 15. This timeline ensures healthy seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation starting from late April to early May once the risk of frost has passed.
Transplanting Arugula Seedlings
Transplant arugula seedlings outdoors from May 1 to May 15, ensuring the soil has warmed to at least 45°F consistently. Space the seedlings 6-12 inches apart in rows with at least 12-18 inches between rows for optimal growth.
General Care and Maintenance
Watering
- Provide consistent watering to keep the soil evenly moist. North Dakota’s variable climate requires regular watering, especially during dry spells.
- Water at the base of plants to avoid leaf wetness, which can promote fungal diseases.
Fertilizing
- Apply a balanced fertilizer at the time of planting and again when the first leaves start to mature. Incorporating compost before planting can boost soil fertility and structure.
Pest and Disease Management
- Regularly check for pests such as aphids and flea beetles. While North Dakota has a variety of conditions, staying vigilant against pests is important for healthy arugula plants.
- Consider implementing organic or integrated pest management strategies to protect arugula from pests and diseases.
Harvesting
- Harvest arugula when leaves are young and tender for best flavor. Regular harvesting encourages a bushier plant and prolongs the growing 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.
What is the best time to plant arugula in North Dakota?
The optimal time to plant arugula is in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked. You can also plant a second crop in late summer for a fall harvest.
Can I plant arugula in the fall for a harvest?
Yes, arugula can be planted in late summer to early fall for a fall harvest. The cooler temperatures are favorable for growing arugula.
How do I know if it’s too late to plant arugula in my garden?
If the first expected frost date is approaching and the temperatures are consistently dropping, it may be too late to plant new seeds, as arugula prefers cooler, but not freezing, temperatures.
Do I need to start arugula indoors before planting it outside?
It’s not necessary to start arugula indoors. It is a hardy plant that can be directly sown into the garden once the soil is workable in early spring or late summer.
How long does it take for arugula to grow and be ready for harvest?
Arugula typically takes about 30-45 days to mature and be ready for harvest once planted.
I'm passionate about cultivating greens in all forms: from kitchen garden to fruit and berry trees. I am also enthusiastic
about creating high-quality soil by utilizing household compost. View Author page
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