Arugula is a popular leafy green vegetable characterized by its distinctively nutty flavor. But do you know how to grow arugula in containers? Think it’s difficult; well, it’s pretty easy! This guide will show you everything you need to know to grow arugula in containers successfully.
Arugula is an excellent weather crop, which means it can be one of the first vegetables you plant in the spring. It is often planted as a winter crop in warmer climates. Let’s jump into more details!
What Are The Health Benefits Of Arugula?
Arugula, also known as rocket salad or roquette, is a leafy green vegetable that belongs to the Brassica family. This family also includes vegetables like kale, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage.
It has a peppery flavor and is often used in salads or as a garnish. It is a good source of vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium. Additionally, arugula contains compounds that may have health benefits.
For example, some research suggests that arugula may protect against heart disease and cancer. Arugula is also a low-calorie food and can be an excellent addition to a weight-loss diet. Including arugula in your diet is a simple way to increase your intake of healthy plant compounds.
Understanding How To Grow Arugula In Containers!
Firstly, remember arugula is a cool weather crop. This means it can handle some frost and be one of the first vegetables you plant in the spring. If you’re planting arugula in the winter in a warmer climate, provide some protection from the hot sun.
What You Will Need:
- Arugula seeds
- Containers (pots, grow bags, etc.)
- Potting mix
- Fertilizer
- Water
Now let’s get on the steps to grow arugula in containers!
Step 1: Choose The Right Container.
The first step is to choose the correct container for your arugula plants. Arugula can be grown in just about any container but choosing one at least 8-10 inches deep is essential. This will give the roots enough room to grow.
Step 2: Fill Your Container With Potting Mix.
Once you’ve selected the perfect container, it’s time to fill it with potting mix. Be sure to use a high-quality potting mix rich in organic matter. This will give your arugula plants the nutrients they need to grow.
Step 3: Sow The Seeds.
The next step is to sow the seeds. You can do this directly in the potting mix or start them indoors in seed trays. If you’re starting them indoors, transplant the seedlings into the containers when they are 4-6 weeks old.
Step 4: Water Regularly.
Arugula plants need to be kept moist, so water them regularly. Check the soil before watering; only water when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry.
Step 5: Fertilize Every Two Weeks.
Arugula plants are heavy feeders, so they fertilize them every two weeks. Use a high-quality organic fertilizer or compost tea to give them the nutrients they need to grow.
Step 6: Harvest The Arugula.
You can start harvesting the arugula leaves when they are 2-3 inches long. Cut them off at the base of the plant with a sharp knife. Arugula leaves will continue to grow, so be sure to harvest them regularly.
With these simple steps, you can quickly grow arugula in containers. Just remember to keep an eye on the plants and water them regularly. If you do, you’ll be able to enjoy fresh arugula leaves all season long!
What Type Of Soil Does Arugula Need?
Arugula grows best in rich, well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider amending it with compost or other organic matter. This will help to improve the drainage and give the roots the nutrients they need to grow.
Arugula is a hardy plant and can handle some frost. However, planting the seeds in the spring after the last frost date is best. Protect from the hot sun if you’re planting in the winter in a warmer climate. Do you know how to make compost at home?
Tips & Tricks To Grow Arugula In Containers!
Here are a few tips and tricks to help you grow arugula in containers successfully:
- Arugula plants need full sun to partial shade. If you’re planting them in the winter, provide some protection from the hot sun.
- Arugula is an excellent weather crop that can handle some frost. This makes it a great choice for planting in the spring.
- Arugula is a heavy feeder, so fertilize them every two weeks.
- You can start harvesting the arugula leaves when they are 2-3 inches long. Cut them off at the base of the plant with a sharp knife.
- Arugula leaves will continue to grow, so be sure to harvest them regularly.
- Water the arugula plants regularly, checking the soil before watering. Only water when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry.
When To Harvest Arugula?
You can start harvesting the arugula leaves when they are 2-3 inches long. Cut them off at the base of the plant with a sharp knife. Arugula leaves will continue to grow, so be sure to harvest them regularly. Here is the list of vegetables that grow in shallow containers!
How To Store Arugula?
Arugula is a delicate herb and should be stored in the refrigerator. Place the leaves in a plastic bag or container and store them in the crisper drawer. Arugula will keep fresh for 1-2 weeks when stored this way. You can also freeze arugula to extend its shelf life.
First, wash and dry the leaves. Then, please place them in a plastic bag or container and freeze them for up to 6 months. Arugula is a delicate herb that should be stored in the refrigerator. Place the leaves in a plastic bag or container and store them in the crisper drawer.
Arugula will keep fresh for 1-2 weeks when stored this way. You can also freeze arugula to extend its shelf life. If you do, you’ll be able to enjoy fresh arugula leaves all season long!
Back To You
Now that you know how to grow arugula in containers give it a try! This excellent weather crop is easy to grow and care for and adds greatly to any meal. Do you know what vegetables grow well together in containers and whether it is safe to grow them in 5-gallon buckets?
