Arugula, also known as rocket, is a nutritious leafy green packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with calcium and iron. This peppery green is a favorite in salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes.
Best Planting Times
Planting Method | Activity | Recommended Dates |
---|---|---|
Outdoor Planting | Direct Sowing | April 1 – May 15 |
Succession Planting | Every 2-3 weeks during spring | |
Greenhouse Planting | Year-round | Adjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse |
Planting Conditions
The varied climate and USDA Hardiness Zones in the region provide an interesting growing environment for arugula. Understanding the optimal conditions for planting and maintaining healthy plants is essential.
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Useful Tools for Starting Arugula Indoors
Utilizing the right tools can enhance your success in growing arugula.
Seeds
Choosing quality seeds ensures better germination rates and robust plants. Starting with high-quality seeds sets your arugula up for success from the start. For perennial varieties, look for wild rocket types, which can be spicier yet return annually. The most commonly used variety is Astro, a vigorous and all-season cut-and-come-again type with silky leaves and a nutty flavor.
You can find Astro Arugula Seeds on Amazon here: https://amzn.to/4gTTIgT
Planting Trays
Using planting trays helps organize your seedlings, ensuring they have enough space to grow before being transplanted outdoors. This method enhances efficiency and promotes healthy plants.
Find Planting Trays on Amazon
Grow Lights
Grow lights are crucial if natural sunlight is insufficient. They provide the necessary light for seedlings to develop strong and healthy even in less-than-ideal circumstances.
Check out Grow Lights on Amazon
Seed Starting Soil
Light and fine soil designed for seed starting encourages rapid root establishment and healthy growth, providing seedlings the best possible start.
Get Seed Starting Soil on Amazon
Average First Frost Dates for Nebraska’s Major Cities
For optimal arugula growth, sow seeds outdoors in Nebraska approximately 2-4 weeks before the expected first frost date in late autumn.
City | Average First Frost Date |
---|---|
Omaha | October 15 |
Lincoln | October 10 |
Grand Island | October 5 |
North Platt | September 30 |
Fremont | October 15 |
Disclaimer: Frost dates are average estimates, and actual conditions may vary. It’s advisable to monitor local weather forecasts and adjust planting accordingly.
Greenhouse Growing
Utilizing a greenhouse in colder climates can protect arugula from frost while providing a controlled environment for year-round cultivation. This setup helps maintain an ideal temperature, which is particularly advantageous during the colder months, allowing for extended harvesting periods.
This 10×12 FT Greenhouse from HOWE can be found at Amazon for $999.00 right now.
Check the latest price on Amazon.
Fertilizer
To achieve the best results with your arugula in Nebraska, using fertilizer enhances growth and supports plentiful harvesting. Quality fertilizer replenishes soil nutrients, leading to vigorous plants.
Check out Fertilizer on Amazon
Other planting guides for Nebraska:
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Starting Arugula Indoors
In Nebraska (Zone 5a to 6a), begin indoor arugula seed starting between March 15 and April 15. This timeline ensures healthy seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation starting from late April to early May once the risk of frost has passed.
Transplanting Arugula Seedlings
Transplant arugula seedlings outdoors from April 25 to May 10, ensuring the soil has warmed above 50°F consistently. Space the seedlings 6-12 inches apart in rows with at least 18 inches between rows for optimal growth.
General Care and Maintenance
Watering
- Provide consistent and thorough watering to maintain evenly moist soil. Nebraska’s varying climate may require adjustments in watering frequency depending on rainfall and temperature.
- Water at the base of plants to avoid leaf wetness, which can reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Fertilizing
- Apply a balanced fertilizer during planting and when the first true leaves form. Incorporating compost before planting can enhance soil fertility and structure.
Pest and Disease Management
- Regularly monitor for common pests like leaf miners, aphids, and caterpillars. Vigilance is important to keep arugula healthy.
- Implement organic or integrated pest management methods to protect arugula plants from pests and diseases.
Harvesting
- Harvest arugula leaves when they reach about 3-6 inches in length. Regular harvesting promotes continuous growth and prevents over-mature leaves.
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.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant arugula in Nebraska?
The best time to plant arugula is in the early spring or late summer. This allows the plant to thrive in cooler temperatures, avoiding the summer heat.
Can arugula be grown during the winter?
Arugula can potentially be grown in winter if protected with cold frames or grown indoors. However, its growth may slow down considerably during very cold weather.
How long does arugula take to mature for harvest?
Arugula typically takes about 30 to 40 days to mature. You can start harvesting leaves when they are young and tender, usually just a few weeks after planting.
What soil conditions are ideal for growing arugula?
Arugula prefers well-draining soil with a neutral pH level. It’s important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Can arugula be planted alongside other vegetables?
Yes, arugula is a great companion plant for many vegetables. It can be planted alongside crops like tomatoes, celery, and carrots to enhance growth.
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