Growing Rocket, also Arugula/Rucola

Eruca vesicaria : Brassicaceae / the mustard or cabbage family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
  P P           P P P  

(Best months for growing Rocket in New Zealand - cool/mountain regions)

  • P = Sow seed
  • Easy to grow. Sow in garden. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 50°F and 77°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 6 - 8 inches apart
  • Harvest in 21-35 days.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Lettuce
  • 'Wild' rocket (narrow leaves)
  • Mature plant

Plant every 2 to 3 weeks for a continuous supply. Leafy green plant with lobed, dark green leaves. It has a slightly spicy, nutty flavour. The spiciness intensifies as the plant gets older.

Frost tender.

Keep well watered in well drained ground. Will go to flower rapidly in hot dry weather.

Culinary hints - cooking and eating Rocket

Use in salads and stir-fry.

Your comments and tips

Post a comment or question Display Newest first | Oldest first, Show comments for New Zealand | for all countries
03 Feb 20, Andrea Hazeldine (New Zealand - temperate climate)
We live in the bush, with less sun hours than most. Will it still be possible to grow Rocket?
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04 Feb 20, (New Zealand - sub-tropical climate)
Some plants need 4-6 hrs sunlight per day some need 6-8 hrs etc. Look up the internet for hrs of sunlight needed for vegetables. You can only give it a try.
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16 Aug 08, Liz (New Zealand - temperate climate)
Yes, Jenni, you can cut a few leaves of rocket as you need them. You will find that once it flowers, you will need to replace it. You are right about celery but broccoli will send up some side shoots after you cut the main one out and extend the harvest time.
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Is Rocket healthy and if yes in what way?

- Janette Keane

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. GardenGrow is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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