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Introduction:
With its peppery flavor and nutritional benefits, Arugula is a delightful addition to any garden. Learn the guide on how to grow arugula from seeds, discover suitable companion plants, and learn the best techniques for harvesting this versatile green.
Growing Arugula from Seeds:
- Choose the Right Location: Arugula thrives in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade. Select a spot in your garden or containers that receives adequate sunlight.
- Prepare the Soil: Ensure the soil is loose, fertile, and rich in organic matter. Arugula prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
- Sow the Seeds: Plant arugula seeds directly into the soil, spacing them about ½ inch apart and covering them lightly with soil. Water gently to keep the soil moist.
- Provide Adequate Water: Keep the soil constantly wet but not soggy. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to promote healthy growth.
- Thin Seedlings: Once they emerge, thin them to about 4-6 inches separated to qualify for proper air circulation and room for growth.
Companion Plants for Arugula:
Companion plants can play an essential role in enhancing the growth of Arugula while also providing advantages such as pest control and improved soil health. Here are some ideal arugula companion plants:
- Lettuce: Lettuce makes an excellent companion for Arugula because they have similar growing requirements regarding soil, sunlight, and water. Plus, they don't compete heavily for nutrients, allowing them to thrive together.
- Herbs: Herbs like basil, cilantro, and dill can be beneficial companions for Arugula. They add diversity to your garden and help repel pests such as aphids, flea beetles, and cabbage moths that may otherwise damage arugula plants.
- Radishes: Radishes are quick-growing root vegetables that can be planted alongside Arugula. They help break up compacted soil with their root systems and provide a natural barrier against soil-borne pests. Additionally, radishes mature relatively quickly, allowing you to harvest them before they compete too heavily with Arugula for space and nutrients.
- Nasturtiums: Nasturtiums are beautiful additions to your garden with their vibrant flowers and excellent companion plants for Arugula. They attract helpful insects like ladybugs and hoverflies, which prey on aphids and other pests that might affect arugula plants. Nasturtiums also deter harmful insects with their spicy scent.
- Spinach: Spinach shares similar growing conditions with Arugula and can be planted alongside it. Both greens benefit from regular watering and partial shade in warmer climates. Plus, spinach helps shade the soil, conserving moisture and reducing weed growth, which can benefit arugula plants.
How to Harvest Arugula:
Here's a quick guide to harvesting Arugula:
- Timing: Harvest when leaves are young and tender, about 4-6 weeks after planting.
- Leaf-by-Leaf: Snip the outer leaves with scissors, keeping the inner ones growing.
- Cut-and-Come-Again: Continuously harvest outer leaves for prolonged production.
- Prevent Bolting: Harvest promptly to avoid bitter leaves due to high temperatures.
- Storage: Wash, dry, and store harvested leaves in the fridge for up to a week.
Conclusion:
Following these guidelines, you can grow and harvest Arugula in your garden. Remember to choose the right location, provide proper care, and consider companion planting to maximize your harvest and enjoy this flavorful green throughout the season.
