Bowl of Arugula

Best Planting Times for Arugula in Wyoming

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingDirect SowingApril 15 – May 15
Second PlantingAugust 1 – September 1
Greenhouse PlantingYear-roundAdjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Growing zones

Arugula Planting Conditions

Wyoming’s climate ranges from arid plains to windy mountain ranges, which can present unique challenges for growing arugula. Understanding local conditions, like soil quality and weather patterns, is key to successful cultivation.


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Useful Tools for Starting Arugula Indoors

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

Seeds

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


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Planting Trays

Planting trays help you organize your seedlings and ensure they have enough space to grow before you transplant them outdoors. This maximizes efficiency and increases the chances of strong, healthy plants.
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Grow Lights

Grow lights are essential if you don’t have enough natural sunlight. They provide your seedlings with the light they need to foster strong growth, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Grow Lights Image
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Seed Starting Soil

Light, fine soil specifically designed for seed starting helps young roots establish quickly and promotes healthy growth. It’s an easy way to give your arugula seedlings the best start possible.
Seed Starting Soil Image
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Greenhouse Growing

In Wyoming, where temperature fluctuations can challenge arugula growth, a greenhouse provides a stable environment for optimal development. Greenhouses extend the growing season, protect plants from extreme weather, and allow for year-round cultivation with proper climate control.

Consider investing in a 10×12 FT Greenhouse priced at $1,199 to ensure your arugula thrives in a controlled environment.
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Greenhouse Image 2
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Fertilizer

For optimal arugula growth in Wyoming, supplementing with fertilizer can ensure abundant and healthy harvests. Quality fertilizer helps replenish nutrients in the soil and promotes vigorous plant growth.
Fertilizer Image
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Plant arugula outdoors in Wyoming approximately 1-2 weeks after the last spring frost date, ensuring the soil is warm enough for optimal growth.

Average Last Frost Dates for Wyoming’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
CheyenneMay 15
CasperMay 25
LaramieMay 10
GilletteMay 30
Rock SpringsJune 1
JacksonJune 10

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

Other planting guides for Wyoming:

Broccoli Planting in Wyoming

Pumpkin Planting in Wyoming

Tomato Planting in Wyoming

Any questions on growing cucumbers? Visit our forum to discuss: Growing Cucumbers.

Starting Arugula Indoors

In Wyoming (Zone 5b), you can start arugula seeds indoors between March 15 and April 15. This timing allows for healthy seedlings to be ready for outdoor transplantation by late April to early May, after the last frost date.

Transplanting Arugula Seedlings

Transplant arugula seedlings outdoors from May 1 to May 15, ensuring the soil temperature is at least 45°F. Space the seedlings 8-12 inches apart in rows with approximately 12-18 inches between rows for optimal growth.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

  • Water arugula consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Regular watering is crucial to prevent bitterness and promote tender leaves.
  • Water at the base of the plants to keep the leaves dry, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting, and consider a light application of nitrogen-rich fertilizer a few weeks after emergence to encourage lush growth.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Regularly check for pests such as aphids and flea beetles. The cool Wyoming environment can still host these pests, so vigilance is key.
  • Utilize organic pest control methods, such as introducing beneficial insects or using insecticidal soap, to protect arugula plants from threats.

Harvesting

  • Harvest arugula leaves when they are young and tender, typically around 4-6 weeks after planting. Regularly cutting leaves helps to stimulate new growth and prolong the harvest period.

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.

The satisfaction when you harvest your own produce is well worth the time you put in 🙂

What are the best times to plant arugula?

The best times to plant arugula are typically in early spring, as soon as the soil is workable, and in late summer for a fall harvest. This ensures that arugula germinates and grows in cooler temperatures, which is optimal for its development.

Can arugula be planted in the summer?

While arugula can technically be planted in the summer, it tends to bolt (flower and go to seed) quickly in the heat. It’s better to plant in early spring and late summer to avoid high temperatures.

What is the growing time for arugula in Wyoming?

Arugula typically takes about 4 to 7 weeks from planting to get to a harvestable size in Wyoming, depending on the specific variety and growing conditions.

Can arugula be grown throughout the year in Wyoming?

Arugula is best grown during the cooler parts of the year. During the extreme cold or hot months, it may require protection such as row covers or be planted indoors in controlled environments.

Is it necessary to start arugula seeds indoors?

It’s not necessary to start arugula seeds indoors since they germinate quickly and can handle cool soil. However, starting them indoors can give you a head start on the growing season or extend it in fall.

BeeJay