Arugula
eruca vesicaria
Also known as: ["Rocket","Rucola","Salad Rocket"]
Overview
A leafy green herb with a peppery, pungent flavor, widely used in culinary applications.
Benefits & Perks
["edible leaves","culinary herb","fast growing","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Eruca |
| Botanical Name: | Eruca vesicaria |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; remove damaged leaves anytime they appear.
- Pruning Intensity: Light; only remove unhealthy or spent parts of the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate seedlings gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; provide shade during extreme heat; rotate plants for even light exposure.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Use reflective surfaces to increase light; prune nearby plants for better light penetration; monitor for light stress.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with neutral to slightly alkaline pH
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Test soil pH annually; amend with organic matter; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); prefers cooler nights for optimal growth.
Use shade cloth in summer; protect from frost in winter; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing before harvest for best flavor; use organic options for healthier growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; direct sowing is common for garden cultivation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or take cuttings.
- Keep moist.
- Provide warmth and light.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are mild and growth is active.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid environment with bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., peat-based with perlite); can also be grown directly in garden soil.
Hormone
Not necessary for seeds; optional for stem cuttings to encourage rooting.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 7–14 days; stem cuttings root in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, pruners, watering can, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Use bottom heat for faster germination; thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding; harden off seedlings before outdoor planting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves or stems at the base with clean cuts to avoid damaging the plant.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or yellowing leaves to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors, or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead or yellowing leaves; avoid over-pruning; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Not typically required for annual cultivation; if grown as a perennial, repot every 1–2 years to refresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bolting (premature flowering) in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or death in prolonged freezing temperatures.
Solution: Provide frost protection (e.g., row covers); plant in sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, turn yellow, or develop sunburn; growth may slow or stop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEruca vesicaria is not considered toxic to cats. It can be included in a cat's diet in small quantities as a source of nutrients.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicEruca vesicaria is not considered toxic to dogs. It can be included in a dog's diet in small quantities as a source of nutrients.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicEruca vesicaria, commonly known as arugula or rocket, is a leafy green vegetable that is generally considered safe for human consumption. It is rich in vitamins and minerals and is widely used in culinary applications.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is arugula safe for pets?
A: Yes, arugula is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should arugula be watered?
A: Arugula prefers moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Can arugula be grown indoors?
A: Yes, arugula can be grown indoors in containers with adequate sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
