Arugula Planting Dates Utah

Arugula, also known as rocket, is 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	April 15 – June 1
	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 in this region varies widely, allowing for both cool-season and warm-season crops. Understanding the planting conditions specific to your area is essential for healthy arugula growth.

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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 variety is a bit more spicy but will regrow year after year.

The most commonly used type is the Astro variant, 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 your seedlings and ensure they have enough space to grow before being transplanted outdoors, increasing the chances of strong, healthy plants.

Find Planting Trays on Amazon

Grow Lights

Grow lights are essential if you don’t have enough natural sunlight. They provide your seedlings with the light needed to grow strong and healthy, 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. This ensures your seedlings receive the best start possible.

Get Seed Starting Soil on Amazon

Average First Frost Dates for Major Cities in Utah

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

City	Average First Frost Date
Salt Lake City	October 15
Provo	October 10
Ogden	October 12
Logan	October 5
St. George	December 1

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

Greenhouse Growing

In colder regions, utilizing a greenhouse can protect arugula from extreme temperatures and maintain a stable growing environment. This controlled setting allows for year-round cultivation and provides the necessary warmth in cooler months. Furthermore, greenhouses can help extend the growing season significantly.

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


Check the latest price on Amazon.

Fertilizer

For optimal growth, supplementing with fertilizer can ensure abundant and healthy harvests. Quality fertilizer helps replenish nutrients in the soil, promoting vigorous plant growth.

Check out Fertilizer on Amazon

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Other planting guides for Utah:

Broccoli Planting in Utah

Kale Planting in Utah

Pumpkin Planting in Utah

Tomato Planting in Utah

Any questions on growing arugula? Visit our forum to discuss: Gardening Forum.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

• Water arugula consistently to keep the soil evenly moist, especially important in dry climates.
• Water at the base of the plants to minimize leaf wetness, helping to reduce fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

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

Pest and Disease Management

• Regularly monitor for common pests such as aphids and flea beetles. Vigilant pest management is essential, especially in warmer climates.
• Use organic or integrated pest management methods to protect arugula plants from pests and diseases.

Harvesting

• Harvest leaves when they reach the desired size, typically 3-6 inches long. Regular 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. It thrives in cooler temperatures. If you don’t have the time to start from seeds, you can find young plants at local nurseries.

If you’re unsure about when to harvest your crop, look for mature leaves that are at least 2-3 inches long. Regularly picking leaves can also promote new growth and extend your harvest.

Also, remember to check for pests like aphids and manage them promptly. With proper care and attention, growing this peppery green can add a delicious touch to your meals.

Starting Arugula Indoors

In Utah (Zone 6a), begin indoor arugula seed starting from late February to early March. This timeline ensures robust seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation from mid-March to early April, just as the weather begins to warm.

Transplanting Arugula Seedlings

Transplant arugula seedlings outdoors from mid-March to early April, ensuring the soil temperature is above 40°F. Space the seedlings 6-12 inches apart to allow for adequate growth.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

• Provide consistent watering to keep the soil evenly moist, particularly during dry spells typical in Utah.
• Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry off during the day, helping to prevent fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

• Apply a balanced fertilizer when transplanting and every few weeks thereafter to promote healthy growth.

Pest and Disease Management

• Regularly check for pests such as aphids and flea beetles. Keeping plants healthy through good care will minimize pest issues.
• Consider using row covers to protect seedlings from pests during the early growth stages.

Harvesting

• Harvest arugula leaves when they are young and tender, typically 4-6 weeks after planting. Regularly harvesting encourages new growth.

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.