Arugula Growing Guide
Arugula (rocket) is a fast-growing salad green with a distinctive peppery, nutty flavor. It is a staple of Italian and Mediterranean salad mixes and can be ready for first harvest in as little as 21 days for baby leaf production.
Growing Conditions
Soil Requirements
Soil Type & pH
Best soil types: loam, sandy loam, silt loam
pH range: 6 - 7 (optimal: 6.5)
Drainage: good
Nutrient Needs (N-P-K)
Planting Guide
Yield & Economics
Common Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
- flea beetle
- aphids
- cabbage worm
Common Diseases
- downy mildew
- white rust
- bacterial leaf spot
Use to identify issues early and prevent crop losses.
Growing Tips
Succession-plant every 2-3 weeks for continuous supply; arugula bolts quickly in warm weather, ending its harvest window.
Baby arugula (harvested at 7-10 cm) is milder and more tender than mature leaves, and commands higher per-kg prices.
Partial shade in summer extends the harvest window by reducing bolting and tempering the sometimes overwhelming peppery bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Arugula take to grow?
Arugula typically takes 35 days from planting to harvest. Seeds germinate in about 4 days. The best planting season is early spring, fall.
What soil does Arugula need?
Arugula grows best in loam, sandy loam, silt loam soil with a pH of 6-7. Good drainage is required.
What temperature does Arugula need?
Arugula grows best at 10-20°C. Frost tolerance: moderate. Heat tolerance: low.
What is the expected yield for Arugula?
Arugula yields approximately 10,000 kg/hectare under good conditions. Multiple harvests per year are possible (4).
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