Sowing rocket (also known as arugula or rucola) is a relatively simple process. Rocket is a cool-season, fast-growing leafy green that is often grown for its peppery-flavoured leaves. Here’s how to Sow & Grow Rocket like a pro.
Table of contents
Watch our follow-along-guide (YouTube)
Watch our step by step beginners guide to Sowing Rocket on YouTube
1. Choose the Right Time to sow rocket
Rocket is best grown in cooler weather, such as spring or fall. It doesn’t tolerate extreme heat well, so avoid planting during the hottest months of summer.
2. Prepare the Soil for rocket
Rocket prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.0 to 7.0). Loosen the soil and remove any weeds or debris from the planting area. You can also enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted organic matter before sowing.
3. Sowing Rocket Seeds
You can sow rocket seeds directly into the ground or in containers. Here’s how: Direct Sowing Rocket: Create shallow rows in the soil, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch (6 to 12 mm) deep. Space the rows about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) apart. Sprinkle the rocket seeds along the rows and then lightly cover them with soil. Keep in mind that rocket seeds are very small, so they don’t need to be buried deep. Container Sowing Rocket : If you’re sowing in containers, fill the container with potting mix. Scatter the rocket seeds evenly over the surface and lightly press them into the soil. Water gently to settle the seeds.
4. Watering rocket
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Watering is especially important during the germination period and as the plants establish themselves. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to fungal issues.
5. Thinning rocket seeds
Once the rocket seedlings have grown a few inches tall and developed their first true leaves, thin them out. Space the seedlings about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) apart. This gives the remaining plants enough room to grow and ensures good air circulation.
6. Care for rocket
Rocket doesn’t require much care. Keep the soil consistently moist, and provide some shade during the hottest part of the day if you’re growing it in a particularly warm period. You can also fertilize lightly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Harvesting rocket
Rocket leaves can be harvested when they reach a desirable size, usually around 4 to 6 weeks after planting. Harvest the outer leaves by cutting them with scissors or snipping them off with your fingers. This allows the inner leaves to continue growing, giving you a continuous harvest. Rocket tends to bolt (produce flowers and go to seed) in hot weather, so harvesting promptly and growing it in cooler seasons can help prolong the harvesting period. By following these steps, you should be able to successfully sow and grow your own delicious rocket leaves.
What Next?
👇🏼 Let me Guide you through the season “NEWSLETTER” ✅ Always know what to sow and when, your full guide to the growing season. (Monthly Newsletter) Simple easy to follow (No Fluff, Spam or filler) just good advice. https://veggiepatchideas.substack.com/
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