Field guide
How to grow arugula: planting, care, and harvest guide
Arugula typically reaches first harvest in 21–40 days. This guide covers when to plant by USDA zone, common pests, harvest cues, and companion plants where relevant.
Open plannerWhen to plant arugula by USDA zone group
- USDA Zones 1–4 — May to June
- USDA Zones 5–6 — April to May
- USDA Zones 7–8 — March to April
- USDA Zones 9–10 — February to March
- USDA Zones 11–13 — October to February
Companion plants
Good companions: Carrots, Onions, Lettuce
Avoid planting with: Strawberries
Harvest
When to pick
- Leaves are 2-3 inches long for baby arugula, 4-6 for mature
- Flavor becomes spicier as leaves mature and in hot weather
- Harvest before flowers appear for best taste
How: Cut leaves 1 inch above the soil. Will regrow 2-3 times before bolting.
Storage: Store loosely in a container in the fridge. Very perishable — use within 3-5 days.
Common pests and problems
Flea Beetles
Signs: Tiny round holes in leaves
Control: Row covers, neem oil. Arugula grows fast enough to outpace light damage.
Aphids
Signs: Clusters on leaves, sticky residue
Control: Water spray, insecticidal soap.
About this field guide
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