Arugula Planting Dates Kansas

Arugula is also known as rocket. It’s a leafy green full of nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. This peppery green is popular in the kitchen and used in salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes.

Best Planting Times

Planting Method	Activity	Recommended Dates
Outdoor Planting	Direct Sowing	March 15 – April 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 allows for a diverse range of planting times. While arugula prefers cooler temperatures, it can still thrive in various conditions with the right care. Knowing the best practices for optimal growth is essential.

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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 lead to better germination and healthier plants. Starting with high-quality seeds gives your arugula the best chance to thrive from the very beginning.

For perennial plants, look for the wild rocket types. This variant is slightly spicier but will return year after year.

The most used type is the Astro variant, known for being vigorous and suitable for all seasons with its long, silky leaves and nutty flavor.

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

Planting Trays

Planting trays help you organize your seedlings and ensure proper spacing before transplanting them outdoors, leading to stronger, healthier plants.

Find Planting Trays on Amazon

Grow Lights

Grow lights are essential if you don’t have enough natural sunlight. They help your seedlings grow strong and healthy, even during less-than-ideal conditions.

Check out Grow Lights on Amazon

Seed Starting Soil

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

Get Seed Starting Soil on Amazon

Average First Frost Dates for Kansas’ Major Cities

Plant arugula outdoors approximately 2-4 weeks before the expected first frost date in late autumn to ensure optimal growth and flavor.

City	Average First Frost Date
Topeka	October 15
Wichita	October 25
Lawrence	October 20
Overland Park	October 30

Disclaimer: Frost dates are average estimates and actual conditions may vary. Monitor local forecasts to adjust planting plans accordingly.

Greenhouse Growing

In colder states, using a greenhouse provides a controlled environment that helps arugula thrive even in suboptimal outdoor temperatures. This extends the growing season and protects plants from frost, ensuring a more reliable harvest.

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


Check the latest price on Amazon.

Fertilizer

For optimal growth, supplementing with fertilizer ensures healthy harvests. A quality fertilizer replenishes nutrients in the soil, promoting vigorous plant growth.

Check out Fertilizer on Amazon

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Other planting guides for Kansas:

Broccoli Planting in Kansas

Kale Planting in Kansas

Pumpkin Planting in Kansas

If you have any questions on growing arugula, visit our forum to discuss: Arugula Growing Forum.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

• Water arugula consistently to keep the soil evenly moist, particularly important in drier conditions.
• Water at the base of the plants to minimize leaf wetness, which reduces the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

• Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and again when the first true leaves appear. Incorporating compost can boost soil fertility and structure.

Pest and Disease Management

• Keeps an eye out for common pests like aphids and flea beetles. Proactive pest management is crucial, especially in warmer weather.
• Utilize organic or integrated pest management strategies to protect arugula from threats.

Harvesting

• Harvest leaves when they reach the desired size, typically 3-6 inches long. Frequent harvesting encourages new growth and prolongs the harvest season.

In my garden, I try to plant arugula in both spring and fall for the best yields, as it thrives in cooler temperatures. If starting from seeds doesn’t fit your schedule, young plants are often available at local nurseries.

When monitoring for maturity, look for leaves that are at least 2-3 inches long. Regularly picking leaves can also promote new growth and extend the harvest.

Remember to check for pests like aphids and manage them promptly. With proper care and attention, growing arugula can be a rewarding experience that adds a delicious touch to your meals.

Starting Arugula Indoors

In Kansas (Zone 6a), begin indoor arugula seed starting from March 15 to April 15. This timeline ensures that seedlings are robust and ready for outdoor transplantation starting from mid-April to early May, after the last frost risk has passed.

Transplanting Arugula Seedlings

Transplant arugula seedlings outdoors from April 15 to May 1, making sure that the soil temperature is ideally between 45°F and 65°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

• Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist, particularly during the warm months to avoid stress on the plants.
• Water at the base of plants to avoid excess moisture on leaves, helping to prevent fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

• Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time, and consider side-dressing with compost when the plants reach mid-size to enhance growth.

Pest and Disease Management

• Regularly check for common pests like aphids and caterpillars, which can affect arugula. Vigilance is key to early detection.
• Utilize organic pest control methods whenever possible, encouraging beneficial insects to manage pests naturally.

Harvesting

• Harvest arugula leaves when they are young and tender for the best flavor. Regular harvesting promotes further growth and prevents 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.