Description
Arugula (Eruca vesicaria) – Rocket Greens with Bold Flavor
A Quick Look at Arugula
Arugula, also known as rocket or roquette, is a leafy green herb celebrated for its peppery bite and tender leaves. Native to the Mediterranean region, this plant belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which also includes cabbage, broccoli, and mustard greens. Its sharp flavor and vibrant green leaves make it a favorite in salads, pizzas, pastas, and sandwiches.
Key Characteristics
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Botanical Name: Eruca vesicaria (syn. Eruca sativa)
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Common Names: Arugula, Rocket, Roquette
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Plant Type: Cool-season leafy green
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Growth Habit: Upright, leafy rosette
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Flavor Profile: Peppery, nutty, slightly bitter
Growing Arugula
Arugula is fast-growing and thrives in cool weather, making it ideal for spring and fall gardens.
Soil and Light
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Prefers well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter.
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Grows best in full sun to partial shade.
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Ideal soil pH: 6.0–7.0.
Planting
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Direct sow seeds outdoors as soon as soil can be worked in spring.
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Plant seeds ¼ inch deep and thin seedlings to 6 inches apart.
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Successive sowing every 2–3 weeks ensures a steady harvest.
Watering
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Keep soil consistently moist to prevent bitterness and bolting.
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Mulch around plants to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
Harvesting
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Baby leaves are ready in 3–4 weeks after sowing.
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Full-sized leaves are harvestable in 5–6 weeks.
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Pick outer leaves first for continuous growth or cut entire plants just above the soil line.
Culinary Uses
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Fresh in salads for a peppery kick.
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Added to pizzas and pastas after cooking for a bright, herbal note.
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Blended into pesto or sauces for bold flavor.
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Used as a garnish for meats, fish, or grain bowls.
Nutritional Benefits
Arugula is nutrient-rich and low in calories. It provides:
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Vitamin K for bone health.
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Vitamin C and A for immunity and eye health.
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Folate and calcium for overall wellness.
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High levels of antioxidants and glucosinolates linked to cancer protection.
Companion Planting and Pests
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Grows well with carrots, beets, and onions.
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Deters some pests but may attract flea beetles; row covers can help protect leaves.
