Arugula is a fast growing annual that is a nutritious leafy vegetable. It is in the same family as broccoli, kale, and Brussels sprouts. It has a tart, peppery flavor and works well in salads.

Start Arugula seeds in the early spring once the soil temperature is 55 degrees F.

Arugula is fast to grow, so it can be started directly in the garden.

• Prepare the soil in the garden. Dig in about 3 - 4 inches
• Add some compost and work it into the soil
• Sprinkle the Arugula seeds in about 4 inches apart and lightly cover with soil
• As the soil temperature warms in the spring, the seeds will germinate

• Arugula prefers moist but not soggy soil
• Afternoon shade is preferred
• Harvesting at about 2 weeks will give tender microgreens
• For mature leaves that have a peppery flavor, harvest 30 - 50 days from seeding
• After the leaves are full size and too bitter to eat, edible flowers will appear