Eruca vesicaria, more commonly known as the Arugula Plant has a rich history, being cherished by ancient Romans and Egyptians for its culinary and medicinal uses. While its botanical name might sound complex, the arugula plant is a great addition to gardens and kitchens everywhere.
Growing arugula is relatively easy, and the plant’s distinctive flavor, attractive foliage, and versatility in cooking make it a fantastic choice for any garden.
Popular Arugula Varieties:
- Wild Arugula (Diplotaxis tenuifolia)
- American Cress (Barbarea verna)
- Rocket (Eruca vesicaria)
Care
- Water: Arugula plants prefer consistent moisture. Water them regularly, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. Proper drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
- Light: Arugula thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. In hotter climates, providing some afternoon shade can help prevent the leaves from becoming too spicy.
- Soil: Arugula grows best in well-drained, fertile soil. A loamy or sandy soil mix is ideal. Adding compost or organic matter to the soil can help improve its fertility and structure.
- Temperature and Humidity: Arugula prefers cooler weather, ideally between 45 and 65°F (7 and 18°C). It can tolerate light frost but will bolt quickly in hot temperatures.
Planting & Growing
Arugula is a cool-weather crop, so it’s best to plant it in early spring or late summer. It can be started from seeds, which should be sown about 1/4 inch deep and spaced about 6 inches apart. Arugula typically takes around 20-50 days to reach maturity from sowing. If you want to know what you should plant Arugula with, check out our companion planting article!
Pruning
Pruning arugula helps keep the plant healthy and encourages new growth. Regularly harvest the outer leaves to promote continued leaf production. Removing any yellowing or damaged leaves will also keep the plant looking its best.
