Arugula, or the much more sexily named Rocket is a favorite as part of salad. It works fantastically as a lettuce substitute when lettuce becomes too boring to handle any more. It also seems to work well with Italian dishes, particularly sprinkled on top of pizzas.
Planting Rocket
Rocket matures quickly and can be sown every 2 or 3 weeks. Planting time is during the cool but frost free periods – spring to autumn generally, but warmer climates will allow plants to be sown in winter or early spring. Soil temperatures between 10°C and 25° are ideal.
Plant seeds a 1/4 of an inch (1cm) deep. Thin as they grow so that they are about half a foot to a foot (15-30cm) apart.
Growing Rocket
It is not at all picky about growing conditions. Generally it can just be left to its own devices aside from regular watering. The soil is best kept mildly moist, and the leaves slightly shaded for optimum flavor. Protect it from frosts using a cloche.
Rocket can be grown in pots, too. It needs regular watering and good quality potting mix, and is generally easier to grow in the ground if space is available.
Harvesting Rocket
Rocket can be harvested in a number of ways. The most practical is to gradually pick a few leaves off from the outside as it grows. The leaves are most tender when young, and tend to become more spicy and bitter as they age. If you are unable to use your entire supply of rocket and are concerned that it is about to go to seed, simply pick off all of the leaves and store in an airtight plastic bag. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.
Old plants can be left to go to seed, and will generally produce again the following season.
Threats To Rocket
Snails and slugs can get at seedlings, but they are generally an untroubled plant. Use a snail or slug trap.