Why are we buying arugula at the store only to have it go bad a few days later? We're going to simplify growing arugula, even in the most urban of settings. Bold, peppery, and ready to spice up your life (and your salads), it thrives in small spaces, making it perfect for city-dwelling gardeners.
Arugula requires 4-6 hours of direct sunlight. Partial shade in hot temperatures. Indoors, grow in pots with bright light or hydroponically using grow lights for 10-12 hours per day.
Keep soil evenly moist, watering regularly. Indoors, air can dry soil quickly; outdoors, water regularly, especially during hot weather. Mulching helps retain moisture.
Arugula is a cool weather crop and thrives in 40-75°F, ideally 50-65°F. Plant outdoors March-May and August-September in NYC zone 7b. Indoors, keep at 65-75°F year-round.
Indoors: 6-8" wide, 6" deep, 1 gallon
Outdoors: 6-8" wide, 6-8" deep, 1-2 gallons
Arugula thrives in moisture-retentive potting mix with organic compost; indoors, worm castings is ideal. Keep the soil consistently moist when starting from seed.
Apply high-nitrogen fertilizer 20-10-10 every 3-4 weeks. Organic options: fish emulsion, blood meal. Consistent fertilization encourages rapid, leafy growth.
Arugula is ready for harvest 20-40 days after planting, or when the leaves are 2-3 inches long. Will go to seed in hot weather. Indoors, arugula lives for 2-3 months; outdoors, arugula typically lasts for 4-6 weeks.
Harvest outer arugula leaves regularly and trim long steams to prevent arugula from going to seed. Frequent harvesting ensures tender, peppery leaves.
Wilting: Water regularly, avoid overwatering. Bolting: Plant in cooler weather. Yellow Leaves: Ensure good drainage, moderate watering. Pests (Aphids): Spray with soapy water and/or release ladybugs.
There are around 10-15 varieties of arugula gardeners commonly grow. One of the perks of growing arugula at home is the opportunity to experiment with different varieties that you won't find at the grocery store.
Do you have any questions or requests? I'm here to help!