Bowl of Arugula

Arugula, with its peppery flavor and vibrant greens, is a fantastic addition to salads, sandwiches, and even pizzas. This leafy green is not just well-loved for its taste but is also packed with essential vitamins A, C, and K.

Its versatility in the kitchen makes arugula a favorite for easy meal prep and salad lovers alike.

To maximize your harvest, I like to sow arugula seeds at intervals, allowing for a steady supply of fresh greens throughout the season.

You can use this easy tool I have made to find your USDA hardiness zone and Typical last frost dates based on the zip code where you live:


Planting

In Indiana, arugula can be planted in early spring, typically around mid-March to early April, and again in late summer from late July to August. These planting windows take advantage of cooler temperatures, which help prevent the plant from bolting.

Planting Dates

  • Planting Season: Spring and Fall
  • Spring Planting: Mid-March to mid-April
  • Fall Planting: Late August to early October
  • Soil Temperature: 40-55°F (4-13°C)
  • Days to Maturity: 30-40 days
  • Sunlight Requirement: Full sun to partial shade
  • Spacing: 4-6 inches apart
  • Watering Needs: Consistent moisture, do not overwater

Soil Preparation

Arugula thrives in fertile, well-drained soil, with an ideal pH of 6.0 to 6.8. Incorporating compost will enrich the soil and provide the nutrients needed for healthy growth.

I find mixing compost with garden soil creates a fantastic growing medium that offers both rich nutrients and good drainage.

The Importance of Good Soil

Before starting to grow, it’s essential to assess the condition of the soil in your garden. The best soil is a blend of mineral-rich dirt and organic matter. In my garden, I compost as much as possible to enrich the soil with nutrients. I use both hot composting for food scraps and cold composting for organic garden waste.

If you don’t have the time or space to compost, you can purchase compost from garden centers or use community composting programs. Learn more about community composting here: Learn more about community composting here.

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One insulated compost bin designed for cold regions is the Exaco Aerobin 400. It holds 113 gallons and doesn’t need turning thanks to its patented “lung” system. Plus, the built-in reservoir collects compost tea, which can be used as fertilizer.

Aerobin Compost Bin

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Where I live I get a large tax refund every year for composting may own organic waste. Due to this saving I was able to break even on the cost at only two year use. I recommend you to check with your local government if you can receive any tax refund.

How to grow

For the best germination, sow arugula seeds directly in the garden about ¼ to ½ inch deep. You can also start them indoors for an earlier harvest, transplanting them when they are a few inches tall.

I recommend planting in rows spaced about 12 inches apart, as arugula tends to spread. Once the seeds sprout, thinning to about 4-6 inches apart ensures each plant has room to grow.

Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Regular watering will support strong leaf development and keep the leaves tender.

Try to plant in a location that gets full sun for at least 6 hours a day. If temperatures start to warm significantly, providing some shade can help keep your arugula from bolting.

I choose organic arugula seeds for optimal health and flavor, ensuring I get the best quality crop from my garden.

I use raised beds to enhance drainage and facilitate easier harvesting. Arugula is a cool-weather crop, but with careful timing and maintenance, you can enjoy fresh greens even into the fall.

Watering and Feeding

During the growing season, arugula needs regular watering to prevent stress. I find that watering deeply once a week is sufficient, but giving extra attention during dry spells is essential.

You won’t typically need fertilizer if your soil is well-prepared, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer can promote rapid growth during the growing season.

Care and Maintenance

  1. Keep the soil evenly moist without letting it become waterlogged.
  2. Use row covers in early spring to protect crops from harsh weather and pests.
  3. Watch out for aphids and cabbage worms, handling them promptly to maintain plant health.
  4. Harvest leaves regularly to encourage new growth and maintain flavor quality.

Harvesting

Arugula can be harvested as soon as the leaves are big enough to eat, typically 4-6 weeks after planting. You can pick leaves from the outside and allow the inner leaves to continue growing for a prolonged harvest.

Freshly harvested arugula is excellent in salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish. One of my favorite ways to enjoy it is in a simple salad with lemon vinaigrette and shaved parmesan.

The crisp texture and peppery bite of arugula elevate any dish, and leftovers can easily be added to stir-fries, pasta, or served as a bed for grilled meats.

What is the best time to plant arugula?

Arugula should be planted in early spring around mid-March to early April, or in late summer from late July to August to take advantage of cooler temperatures.

What type of soil is ideal?

Arugula grows best in fertile, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Incorporating compost into the soil can enrich it further and provide essential nutrients.

How often should I water?

Regular watering is essential, keeping the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water deeply once a week and more frequently during dry spells.

When can I harvest?

You can begin harvesting arugula once the leaves are large enough to eat, typically around 4-6 weeks after planting. Pick the outer leaves and let the inner ones continue to develop.

How can I prevent bolting?

Try planting your arugula in cooler months and, if necessary, provide some shade as temperatures start to warm. Consistent watering can also help minimize stress that leads to bolting.

BeeJay
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