Arugula, also referred to as rocket, is a nutritious leafy green packed with essential vitamins A, C, and K, along with calcium and iron. Its peppery flavor makes it popular in various dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and pasta.
Best Planting Times
Planting Method | Activity | Recommended Dates |
---|---|---|
Outdoor Planting | Direct Sowing | September 1 – November 15 |
Succession Planting | Every 2-3 weeks during fall | |
Greenhouse Planting | Year-round | Adjust planting based on temperature control |
Planting Conditions
The warm and humid climate provides an extended growing season, making it suitable for arugula. Understanding the best planting conditions ensures optimal growth and quality of your crop.
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Useful Tools for Starting Arugula Indoors
Utilizing the right tools can significantly improve your planting success.
Seeds
Quality seeds are essential for good germination and robust growth. The Astro variety is quite popular due to its vigorous growth, all-season adaptability, and delightful nutty flavor.
You can find Astro Arugula Seeds on Amazon here: https://amzn.to/4gTTIgT
Planting Trays
Planting trays help organize seedlings and ensure they have enough space before being transplanted outdoors, enhancing efficiency and plant strength.
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Grow Lights
Grow lights are vital for ensuring seedlings receive sufficient light, especially if natural sunlight is limited.
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Seed Starting Soil
A light, specially formulated seed starting soil helps young roots establish quickly. This ensures healthier plants right from the beginning.
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Average First Frost Dates for Louisiana’s Major Cities
For optimal growth and flavor, plant arugula outdoors in Louisiana approximately 2-4 weeks before the expected first frost date in late autumn.
City | Average First Frost Date |
---|---|
New Orleans | December 1 |
Baton Rouge | December 5 |
Shreveport | November 15 |
Lake Charles | December 10 |
Disclaimer: Frost dates are average estimates and can vary based on actual conditions. It is advised to monitor local forecasts for accurate planting times.
Other planting guides for Louisiana:
Broccoli Planting in Louisiana
Any questions on growing arugula? Visit our forum to discuss: Gardening Forum.
Fertilizer
For optimal growth, using fertilizer supports healthy plant development and abundant yields. A good fertilizer assists in replenishing soil nutrients crucial for vigorous growth.
Check out Fertilizer on Amazon
General Care and Maintenance
Watering
- Consistently water arugula to keep the soil evenly moist, especially in hot conditions.
- Water at the base to keep leaves dry, minimizing disease risks.
Fertilizing
- Apply balanced fertilizer when planting and again when first true leaves emerge. Compost can improve soil quality.
Pest and Disease Management
- Regular monitoring for common pests is crucial. Managing pests proactively is essential, especially during warmer months.
- Utilize organic pest management strategies to keep plants healthy.
Harvesting
- Harvest arugula leaves at 3-6 inches in length. Frequent harvesting promotes new growth.
In my experience, planting arugula in both the spring and fall yields the best results, as it thrives in cooler temperatures. Young plants can also be sourced from local nurseries if seed starting isn’t feasible.
Look for mature leaves of at least 2-3 inches to determine harvest readiness. Regular harvesting can extend the growing season and improve overall yield.
Be vigilant for pests such as aphids to manage them effectively. With the right care, growing arugula can truly enhance your culinary creations.
Starting Arugula Indoors
In Louisiana (Zone 8b), begin indoor arugula seed starting between September 1 and October 15. This timeline ensures healthy seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation starting from late October to early November when the temperatures are cooler.
Transplanting Arugula Seedlings
Transplant arugula seedlings outdoors from late October to early November, ensuring the soil temperature is suitable for growth. Space the seedlings 6–12 inches apart in rows with at least 18–24 inches between rows for optimal growth.
General Care and Maintenance
Watering
- Provide consistent watering to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells.
- Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of leaf diseases; water at the base of plants instead.
Fertilizing
- Apply a balanced fertilizer during planting and side-dress with compost to boost soil fertility as the plants grow.
Pest and Disease Management
- Monitor for common pests like aphids and flea beetles, as well as diseases such as downy mildew.
- Utilize organic pest control methods and ensure good air circulation around plants to minimize disease risks.
Harvesting
- Harvest arugula leaves when they are about 3-4 inches long. Regular harvesting encourages new growth and maintains plant health.
The importance of good soil
Before starting to grow it is important to take a step back and find the condition of the soil in your garden,The optimal soil is a blend that includes the mineral-rich dirt along with organicrich organic matter that plants need to thrive.
In my garden I try to compost as mutch as possible, so I can mix in the nutrient ritch compost in my soil. I use both hot composting of food scraps and cold composting of all organic garden “waste”..
If you dont have the time or space for composting, it is possible to get compost ready to use in garden centers and Community Composting.
You can read more on Community Composting here: https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food/community-composting
If you are uncertain of the quality of your soil, you can get easy to use soil tests at amazon for 17 dollars. Check latest prices here: Soil testing kit.
Also remember to check out how much sunlight your growing area gets, and that the rain drains well. If you treat your soil well and plan you crops according to your climate you will succeed with any plant you want.
What are the best planting dates for arugula in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, the optimal planting windows for arugula are during early spring (late February to early March) and fall (September to October).
Can arugula be planted in the summer months?
While arugula prefers cooler temperatures, you can attempt summer planting with some shade and adequate moisture, but it may bolt quickly in the heat.
Is it necessary to start arugula seeds indoors?
Starting arugula seeds indoors is not typically necessary; direct sowing in prepared garden soil works well due to the quick germination time.
How far apart should I space my arugula plants?
Space arugula seeds about 1 inch apart in rows that are around 12-18 inches apart, allowing ample room for growth.
What type of soil is best for arugula planting?
Arugula thrives in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0.
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