Arugula, also known as rocket salad, is a fast-growing leafy green packed with a peppery flavor that can transform any dish. Whether you have a small balcony or a spacious garden, growing arugula in pots is simple, rewarding, and perfect for gardeners of all levels. With just a bit of care, you’ll have a steady supply of fresh, flavorful leaves ready to harvest in as little as a few weeks. Plus, growing arugula in containers gives you the flexibility to move your plants to the best conditions, ensuring a healthy and productive crop throughout the season.
Table of Contents Show
Prefer to Watch?
Light Requirements
4-6 hours direct sunlight
Water Requirements
Consistently moist,
but not waterlogged
Growing Season
Best grown in cooler weather (from spring to early fall)
Light
Requirements
4-6 hours direct sunlight
Water
Requirements
Consistently moist,
but not waterlogged
Growing Season
Best grown in cooler weather (from spring to early fall)
Prepare Your Pot
- Choose a container that is at least 6 inches (15 cm) deep and has a wide diameter to allow the arugula to grow comfortably.
- Ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent waterlogging. If it doesn’t, drill some holes at the bottom.
- Fill the container with potting mix, leaving about an inch of space from the rim. To enrich the soil, mix in some compost for added nutrients. If you want to improve drainage and aeration, try adding perlite or vermiculite – these amendments help keep the soil light and well-draining, which is essential for healthy arugula growth.
For tips on creating your own potting mix, check out our guide How to Make Your Own Potting Mix.
Plant the Seeds
- Scatter the arugula seeds thinly across the soil surface within rows, spacing them about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart. Ensure that rows are spaced approximately 5 inches (13 cm) apart to allow for optimal growth and airflow.
- Cover the seeds lightly with a thin layer of soil (about ¼ inch or 6 mm).
- Water gently using a spray bottle or watering can to avoid displacing the seeds. During germination, it’s crucial to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, watering whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.
Reminder: Label your container if you’re growing multiple crops.
Provide Ideal Growing Conditions
- Place the pot in a sunny location that receives 4-6 hours of sunlight daily, as arugula thrives in sunlight and grows robustly under these conditions. However, it also adapts well to partial shade, which can be helpful in hot climates to prevent bolting.
- After germination, water the soil deeply but less frequently to encourage strong root development. Ensure the soil remains moist without becoming overly saturated, and adjust watering based on weather conditions.
Pro Tip: During hot weather, move the pot to a shaded spot to prevent the plant from bolting (producing flowers prematurely).
Thin the Seedlings
Once the seedlings are about 2 inches tall, thin them out by snipping the smaller ones at soil level. Space the remaining seedlings about 4 inches (10 cm) apart to allow for proper growth and airflow.
Tip: The thinned seedlings are tender and delicious. They can be used as microgreens to add flavor and nutrition to your dishes. Interested in growing more microgreens at home? Check out our guide Growing Broccoli Microgreens at Home.
Fertilize (Optional)
- Use an organic liquid or slow-release fertilizer every 2-3 weeks to promote healthy growth.
- Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can result in fewer leaves and more flowers.
Harvest Regularly
- Arugula leaves are ready to harvest when they are about 3-4 inches long. Snip the outer leaves first, allowing the inner leaves to keep growing.
To avoid stressing the plant, never harvest more than one-third of the leaves at a time. - To ensure a steady supply, practice succession planting by sowing new seeds every 2-3 weeks. This method will provide a continual harvest of fresh arugula leaves throughout the growing season.
- For a continuous harvest, pick leaves frequently and avoid cutting the entire plant.
Harvesting Tip: Younger leaves have a milder flavor, while mature leaves are spicier.
Common Issues and Solutions
- Bolting: In hot weather, arugula tends to bolt. Keep the pot in a shaded area and water consistently to delay flowering.
- Pests: Watch for aphids or flea beetles. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to manage infestations.
- Yellowing Leaves: This may indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiency. Adjust watering and consider adding compost or fertilizer.
FAQs
How long does arugula take to grow?
Arugula matures quickly, with leaves ready to harvest in as little as 20-40 days, depending on growing conditions such as light, temperature, and soil quality.
Can I grow arugula indoors?
Yes! Place the pot near a sunny window or use grow lights to ensure sufficient light.
Can I regrow arugula after harvesting?
Yes, arugula is a cut-and-come-again crop. Leaves will regrow after each harvest.
How often should I water arugula?
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during germination. After the plant is established, water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Can arugula tolerate shade?
Arugula grows best in full sun but adapts well to partial shade, which can be beneficial in hot climates to prevent bolting.
What to Read Next
If you enjoyed learning about growing arugula, explore more gardening tips with these helpful guides:
