Share
Leafy greens are probably the richest and most nutritious food that everyone recommends eating for a healthy lifestyle; one of them is arugula. It is an exotic vegetable that hails from the Mediterranean region. This tender leafy vegetable is a powerhouse of various vitamins and minerals. It belongs to the members of the brassica, or cruciferous family.
Video Credits: Toward Garden
Growing arugula from seeds is an easy and rewarding process that provides you an opportunity to enjoy its peppery flavour, which makes the dishes spicy and delicious naturally. Here are some detailed tips for the successful cultivation of arugula and enjoying a bountiful harvest.
Essential Six Tips To Remember While Growing Arugula From Seeds At Home:
Choose The Correct Location
The first step to take before planting is choosing the right spot. Arugula grows in cool weather and can be planted in both spring and fall. The main preference of arugula plants is full sun, but they can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates where too much direct sunlight can cause the plant to bolt.
Image Credits: Freepik
Additionally, if planting arugula in the garden, then decide to plant arugula at a spot where at least 4-6 hours of sunlight is available. However, if planting in containers, then place them in a sunny spot, like on a balcony.
Soil Preparation
Arugula thrives in well-drained, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. Start by loosening the soil to a depth of about 6 inches. This allows the roots to penetrate easily and helps with drainage. Then remove any weeds, rocks, or debris from the area.
Additionally, to improve soil fertility, work in compost or well-rotted manure. Arugula grows best in slightly acidic to neutral soil, with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. Also, you can test your soil’s pH and amend it if necessary. If you’re planting in containers, use a high-quality potting mix that retains moisture but also drains well to prevent waterlogging.
Image Credits: Freepik
Sowing
When the soil is prepared, it’s time to sow the arugula seeds. Arugula seeds are tiny, so handle them carefully. When starting to sow the seeds, make shallow furrows in the soil, about 1/4 inch deep. If planting in rows, space the rows about 10-12 inches apart. Scatter the seeds thinly along the furrow, aiming for about 1 inch of space between each seed. Cover the seeds lightly with soil or compost.
If you’re planting in a container, sprinkle the seeds evenly across the surface of the soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil or compost. Gently water the area to settle the soil.
Watering
Water the plants constantly to make sure the healthy production of arugula, especially during the germination period. Water the seeds gently after planting and keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which typically takes 5-7 days. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to waterlogged soil and root rot.
Image Credits: Freepik
Fertilising
Arugula does not require any heavy fertilisation, especially when you have enriched the soil with compost before planting. However, if your soil is poor in nutrients or if you notice slow growth, you can apply a balanced organic fertiliser or a compost tea every few weeks to give the plants a boost.
Harvesting
Arugulas are ready to harvest when the leaves are about 3 inches long, usually 3-4 weeks after planting. You can use two methods for harvesting: either cut and come again or a full plant harvest method.
