How to Grow Arugulas: The Complete Guide

Arugula (Eruca vesicaria) is a easy-to-grow cool-season vegetable that thrives in USDA zones 2-11. With the right soil, sunlight, and care, you can harvest fresh arugula in as little as 21-40 days. This guide covers everything you need to know about growing arugula at home—from planting to harvest.

Overview

Arugula brings a peppery, nutty kick to salads and pizzas that you simply can't get from bagged greens. This speed demon of the garden germinates in days and can be harvested as baby greens within three weeks of sowing.

When and How to Plant Arugulas

Start indoors: Not recommended—direct sow. Arugula needs partial to full sun and well-drained, ph 6.0-7.0 to thrive. Plant seeds at ¼ in depth with 4-6 in between plants.

• Sowing depth: ¼ in
• Plant spacing: 4-6 in
• Germination time: 3-7 days
• Days to harvest: 21-40 days
• Best soil: Well-drained, pH 6.0-7.0
• Season: Cool season — zones 2-11

Care and Maintenance

Arugula requires regular watering and partial to full sun. Consistent moisture is especially important during the growing season when roots are establishing.

• Watering: Regular — water deeply at the base, not overhead, to prevent leaf disease
• Mulching: Apply 2-3 inches of straw or shredded leaves to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
• Feeding: Apply balanced organic fertilizer or compost tea every 3-4 weeks during active growth
• Watch for deficiencies: Yellow leaves = nitrogen, purple stems = phosphorus, brown leaf edges = potassium

Pro Tips

Harvest baby leaves for mild, nutty flavor or let them mature for stronger peppery bite. Self-seeds readily—let a few plants flower and you may never need to replant.

Companion Planting for Arugulas

Companion planting improves arugula health and yield by attracting beneficial insects, repelling pests, and improving soil. Plant arugula alongside these proven companions:

Avoid planting near: These plants compete for nutrients, attract the same pests, or inhibit arugula growth:

Common Pests and Diseases

Watch for these common problems when growing arugula. Early identification and organic prevention methods are key to keeping your plants healthy:

Learn more in our Organic Pest Control Guide.

Harvesting and Storage

Knowing when to harvest arugula is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Arugula is typically ready to harvest in 21-40 days from planting.

• Harvest timing: Most home gardeners find that harvesting slightly early produces better flavor than letting crops over-mature
• Best time of day: Harvest in the morning when plants are cool and turgid for longest shelf life
• Storage: See our Harvesting and Preserving Guide for freezing, canning, and drying methods

Recommended Varieties

These are the best arugula varieties for home gardeners, selected for flavor, disease resistance, and ease of growing:

Frequently Asked Questions About Arugulas

How long does it take to grow arugula?

Arugula takes 21-40 days from planting to harvest. Germination takes 3-7 days. Start indoors not recommended—direct sow for earlier harvests.

What zones can you grow arugula in?

Arugula grows well in USDA hardiness zones 2-11. It is a cool-season crop that needs partial to full sun.

What should I plant next to arugula?

Good companions for arugula include Bush Beans, Beets, Carrots, Spinach. Avoid planting near Strawberries.

How much sun does arugula need?

Arugula requires partial to full sun. Plant in well-drained, ph 6.0-7.0 with 4-6 in spacing between plants.

Related Vegetables to Grow