Arugula – Slow Bolt

Eruca vesicaria sativa

• Growing Temperature: 35°F – 75°F
• Days to Maturity: 30-45 days

A gardener’s dream come true: This variety is renowned for its ability to resist bolting, the process where plants prematurely flower and become bitter. This makes it a fantastic choice for warmer climates or extended growing seasons. Its peppery, tangy flavor adds a delightful kick to salads, sandwiches, and pesto. While arugula is generally easy to grow, challenges can arise from pests like aphids and flea beetles.

Direct Sowing: Sow Slow Bolt Arugula directly into well-prepared soil after the last frost. Choose a sunny location with rich, loose soil. Broadcast seeds thinly over the surface and lightly cover with soil. Keep the area consistently moist. Thin seedlings to about 4 inches apart for optimal growth. Arugula is a quick grower, and you can begin harvesting tender leaves in about a month. For continuous harvests, sow new seeds every few weeks.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: For early harvests or to extend the growing season, start Slow Bolt Arugula indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Use seed starting trays filled with a quality seed starting mix. Transplant seedlings outdoors once the weather has warmed, spacing them about 6 inches apart.

Harvesting: Harvest arugula leaves when they reach desired size. Younger leaves tend to be milder, while larger leaves have a stronger peppery flavor. Continuous harvesting encourages new growth. You can cut entire plants or simply harvest individual leaves as needed.