Arugula Seeds: A Guide to Growing Flavorful Greens
Arugula, often referred to as rocket or roquette, is a cool-season leafy green prized for its tender leaves and signature peppery flavor. A favorite among gardeners and chefs, arugula adds a zesty kick to salads, sandwiches, and pestos. Its fast-growing nature and adaptability make it an ideal crop for both beginner and experienced gardeners.
Why Grow Arugula?
Arugula is one of the easiest greens to grow and can thrive in garden beds, raised beds, and containers. Its quick growth means you can enjoy a harvest in as little as 30 days, and it’s a great choice for succession planting to ensure a steady supply. The spicy flavor of arugula is a standout, and its vibrant, serrated leaves make it a visually appealing addition to your garden and your plate.
Selected Arugula Seeds for Sale
Our collection features diverse arugula varieties, each offering unique flavors, textures, and appearances:
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Organic Wild Arugula: This variety has smaller, deeply serrated leaves and an intense, peppery flavor. It’s a great choice for adding a bold kick to salads or as a garnish. Wild arugula tends to grow slower but produces continuously over an extended period.
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Organic Rocket Arugula: The classic arugula variety, Rocket features smooth, lobed leaves and a milder, nutty flavor with a touch of spice. It grows quickly, making it perfect for fast harvests. This variety is an excellent choice for those who want to experience arugula’s signature taste without overwhelming spiciness.
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Organic Sylvetta Arugula: A gourmet favorite, Sylvetta produces thin, feathery leaves with a delicate texture and a complex, slightly bitter flavor. It’s slower to bolt compared to other varieties, making it ideal for warm climates or extended growing seasons.
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Astro Arugula: Known for its slightly broader leaves and mild flavor, Astro arugula is a great option for gardeners who prefer a less spicy green. It matures quickly and is excellent for baby greens and microgreens.
These varieties are all non-GMO and organic, ensuring a healthy and sustainable choice for your garden.
How to Grow Arugula from Seeds
Growing arugula is simple and rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
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Prepare the Soil: Choose well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0). Add compost or organic matter to improve fertility.
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Sow the Seeds: Plant seeds ¼ inch deep and about 1 inch apart. For container gardening, use a shallow pot with good drainage.
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Water Consistently: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Arugula grows best with regular watering, as drought stress can make the leaves too bitter.
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Provide Sunlight: Arugula thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade, especially in warmer regions where shade can prevent bolting.
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Harvest Regularly: Begin harvesting leaves when they reach 2–3 inches for baby greens or wait until the plant matures for larger leaves. Continuous harvesting promotes new growth.
The Look and Taste of Arugula
Arugula’s appearance and flavor vary depending on the variety:
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Wild Arugula: Deeply serrated, delicate leaves with an earthy, robust flavor.
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Rocket Arugula: Smooth, lobed leaves with a milder, nutty taste and a hint of spice.
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Sylvetta Arugula: Thin, feathery leaves with a sophisticated, slightly bitter flavor.
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Astro Arugula: Broader leaves with a mellow, almost sweet flavor profile.
These greens are not only flavorful but also visually striking in the garden, with lush green leaves that contrast beautifully with other plants.
Tips for Success
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Succession Planting: Sow seeds every two weeks to maintain a continuous supply of fresh greens.
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Companion Planting: Arugula pairs well with radishes, carrots, and herbs like dill and cilantro.
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Pest Protection: Use row covers to protect plants from flea beetles and other pests.
A Sustainable Choice
Arugula is an excellent option for sustainable gardening. Its rapid growth and minimal care requirements make it an eco-friendly crop. Plus, allowing a few plants to flower attracts pollinators to your garden, supporting the ecosystem.
Whether you prefer the bold kick of Wild Arugula or the milder notes of Astro, there’s a variety for every palate and growing style. Explore our collection and enjoy the satisfaction of growing your own fresh, flavorful greens.