Growing, Harvesting and Using Rocket

Rocket seedlings emerging in the garden. Photo by Jeff Harbrow

Description

Rocket, also known as arugula, is a popular, fast growing leafy green with peppery-tasting leaves perfect for adding flavour to salads and cooked dishes. The plants grow to approximately 20-30cm tall before flowering and produce an abundant harvest when grown in the garden or pots and containers.

Growing conditions

In most climates, rocket can be grown all year round, however, produces the best crops in the cooler months. Rocket is best sown in autumn and winter in warm and subtropical climates, and in cooler climates is best sown in autumn and spring. The plants prefer full sun to part shade in the garden and thrive in well-drained soil amended with compost. In warm weather, plants can prematurely bolt, meaning they start to produce seed. To prevent early bolting, keep plants well-watered and harvest regularly.

Sowing Rocket Seeds

Rocket seeds are best sown directly into the garden, however, can be raised as seedlings in trays or containers and transplanted once established when plants reach 5-7cm high. If planting directly into the garden, mark out a row approximately 3-4mm deep and carefully sow seeds spacing out 3-5cm apart. Cover lightly and keep soil moist until seeds germinate in 6-10 days. Succession sowing of rocket seeds every 2-3 weeks will ensure an extended harvest throughout the season. Rocket can also easily be grown in pots or containers and can be sown thickly to maximise space.

Harvesting and Using Rocket

Rocket leaves can be harvested within 5-6 weeks. To harvest, individually pick leaves or cut back (leaving 2-3cm) the plants and new leaves will grow. Generally, rocket tastes best when the leaves are harvested young, so ensure regular harvesting to maximise taste. As the plant matures, the leaves will become more ‘peppery’ with age. Rocket is often used fresh to top pizzas or is popular in salads with walnuts, pear, feta and balsamic vinegar or can be added to eggs, sandwiches or soups and curries.

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