The information on this page applies to seedlings sold by LEAF Nursery during our 2021 Seedling Sale.
Diplotaxis tenuifolia. 'Rocky' is a fast-growing, wild-type arugula that grows in a compact rosette form. Wild arugula has a slightly stronger, more complex flavor than regular arugula, and is perennial in USDA zones 6—10. Its flavor can be described as peppery or mustardy with a hint of nuttiness. Most often eaten raw in salads, arugula can also give pizzazz to pizza or be enjoyed simply steamed.[1[
Seed Type
| Organic | Heirloom | Non-GMO | Hybrid | Open-pollinated | Untreated |
Additional Information
| Container Friendly | Trellis Needed | Easy to Grow | Pollinator Friendly |
When to Plant Your Seedling
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Growing Conditions
| Light | Temperature | Soil | Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Sun | 55-80 F | Well draining, well composted soil. Slightly acidic to neutral | Consistently, 1 inch per week, more during dry spells[2] |
Planting Tips
| Plant Spacing | Plant Size | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|
| 6" | 8-10" | 40-50 days from seed |
- Additional instructions:
- Harvesting instructions: For the mildest, best-tasting baby greens, pick leaves when 2"-4" long. Pick individually or cut off the plant at ground level. For the best flavor, harvest before plant begins to flower, unless you plan to eat the flowers.[1]
- Seed Source: Botanical Interests
Common Problems, Diseases and Pests
- Arugula bolts (goes to flower) most commonly in response to warm or hot weather, uneven soil moisture, wilting, or soil dryness. Overharvesting, rootbinding, and other stressors may also encourage arugula to bolt early. There is nothing that can be done to reverse or stop bolting once it begins; it may be possible to extend harvest slightly by cutting off flower stalks as they appear. It is recommended to tasting leaves for quality and if still reasonable, harvesting the majority of leaves or whole plants at the first sign of bolting, unless you want to save seeds.[2]
- Damping off, mildew
- Flea beetles, aphids, Cabbage Loopers, please see link below for more information
Useful Resources
- https://www.botanicalinterests.com/product/Rocky-Arugula-Wild-Rocket(Seed Source)
- https://www.gardenzeus.com/plants/arugula/
- http://mgsantaclara.ucanr.edu/garden-help/vegetables/arugula/
- https://sfbaygardening.com/resources/bay-area-planting-calendar/
If you bought this seedling and have any questions or feedback, let us know in the comment section below.