Rocket-salad, Wild Rocket Sylvesta

Rocket-salad, Wild Rocket Sylvesta

Growing wild rocket, also known as arugula or rucola, particularly the variety “Sylvetta,” can be a flavorful addition to your garden. Here’s a guide to help you cultivate wild rocket successfully:

1. Planting Time: Wild rocket is a cool-season crop. Sow seeds directly in the garden in early spring or late summer. It thrives in cooler temperatures.

2. Site Selection: Choose a location with partial to full sun for growing wild rocket. It can tolerate some shade, making it suitable for various garden settings.

3. Soil Preparation: Wild rocket prefers well-draining, fertile soil. Work the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches, incorporating organic matter like compost to enhance fertility.

4. Sowing Seeds: Scatter wild rocket seeds directly onto the soil surface, and lightly press them into the soil. Space the seeds about 1-2 inches apart. Optionally, you can sow in rows, keeping rows 6-12 inches apart.

5. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist. Wild rocket appreciates regular watering to prevent it from becoming overly peppery and to promote steady growth. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before evening.

6. Fertilization: Wild rocket doesn’t require heavy fertilization. If your soil lacks nutrients, you can apply a balanced fertilizer at planting time. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it can make the leaves too pungent.

7. Thinning: Once the seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them to allow proper spacing. For wild rocket, this might mean leaving 4-6 inches between plants.

8. Harvesting: Harvest wild rocket when the leaves are young and tender, usually around 4-6 weeks after planting. Use scissors to cut the outer leaves, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing. Frequent harvesting promotes a continuous supply.

9. Successive Planting: For a continuous harvest, consider successive plantings every 2-3 weeks. This ensures a fresh supply of young leaves.

10. Companion Planting: Wild rocket has few pests, but it can benefit from companion planting. Plant it near crops like tomatoes or beans to promote a mutually beneficial environment.

11. Protection from Pests: Keep an eye out for aphids or flea beetles, which may occasionally bother wild rocket. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used for control.

12. Flowering and Bolting: As the weather warms, wild rocket may bolt (produce flowers) and become more peppery. Harvest promptly to prevent bitterness. Consider planting in a partially shaded area to delay bolting.

Growing wild rocket, especially the “Sylvetta” variety, offers a zesty and peppery addition to salads and dishes. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavor of homegrown wild rocket in your culinary creations!