Arugula is a cool-loving crop. Start seeds asap in spring directly in soil in hoophouse (Feb. 1st), coldframe (Feb 15th) or outside (March 27). Days to germination: 5-7. For baby greens, broadcast sow seeds or sow seeds in rows 3" apart (sow seeds 1/8” deep). Plant every 2 weeks to have a constant supply. Keep soil moist. For fall production, sow it no later than Aug. 15th or for winter hoophouse production sow Sept. 1st (cover arugula inside the hoophouse when temps drop below 15°). Arugula is a cold hardy crop that is resistant to downy mildew. It can grow in part shade.
Baby Leaves: for cut-and-come-again, when leaves are 3-4”, cut entire plant with scissors 1-2" above soil level so you don’t damage the growing crown. Return for several harvests. Harvest mature leaves as desired. Eventually the plants will begin to “bolt” (flower) and make seed. (See Seed Saving Instructions.)
Arugula is an easy seed saving plant. It is insect pollinated and is a cross-pollinated plant but since most arugula grown is the common arugula type, isolation from other arugulas is not usually necessary. Will not cross with Perennial Arugula which is a different species. Minimum population size: 10 plants. Collect seeds from the best plants once pods have turned from green to tan but before seeds have been released. Clean seed as a dry-seeded crop.
