How to Harvest Arugula: Tips and Techniques for Success
How to Harvest Arugula?
To harvest arugula, there are two methods you can use.
The first method is to harvest the leaves one by one.
When the plants are at least 6″ tall, you can cut the stems of the leaves about an inch from the crown or leaf base.
This allows new growth to develop in the center, providing continuous harvests.
The second method is to harvest the whole plant.
This is useful if you want to make space for other plants or prevent flowering.
Arugula can be harvested around 20-50 days after sowing, when the leaves are large enough to eat.
For baby arugula leaves, you can harvest even earlier.
Keep in mind that arugula grows best in spring and fall, in temperatures around 60° and 65°F.
If temperatures reach 70°F – 75°F, the plant may start preparing for flowering and the leaves may become more bitter.
Properly stored arugula leaves can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator, while whole plants with roots attached can be stored in water for up to a week to keep them fresh.
Key Points:
- Two methods for harvesting arugula:
- harvesting leaves one by one
- harvesting the whole plant
- When plants are 6″ tall, cut stems of leaves about an inch from crown or leaf base for continuous growth
- Harvesting the whole plant is useful for creating space for other plants or preventing flowering
- Arugula can be harvested around 20-50 days after sowing, with baby arugula able to be harvested earlier
- Arugula grows best in spring and fall, with optimal temperatures around 60° and 65°F
- If temperatures reach 70°F – 75°F, the plant may start preparing for flowering and leaves may become more bitter
- Properly stored arugula leaves can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator, while whole plants with roots attached can be stored in water for up to a week.
Did You Know?
1. Arugula, also known as rocket or rucola, is a member of the Brassicacea family, making it a relative of cabbage, kale, and broccoli.
2. The term “arugula” comes from the Italian word “rucola,” which originated from the Latin “eruca,” meaning “caterpillar.” This is due to the plant’s distinctive elongated leaves that resemble caterpillars.
3. In Greek mythology, arugula was considered an aphrodisiac. It was believed that consuming arugula could increase sexual desire and improve fertility.
4. Arugula has been used as a natural remedy for centuries. Ancient Romans and Egyptians used arugula as a diuretic and to combat stomach ailments. It was also used to treat poisonings and as an anti-inflammatory.
5. Arugula was originally cultivated in the Mediterranean region and has been consumed for thousands of years. It was brought to North America by European settlers in the 17th century and has since become a popular salad green in many cuisines around the world.
The Benefits And Nutritional Value Of Arugula
Arugula, a leafy green vegetable with a distinct flavor, is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. This nutrient-dense vegetable is high in fiber, making it an excellent choice for promoting a healthy digestive system. Additionally, arugula is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium, potassium, folate, and vitamins C, A, and K. These nutrients contribute to maintaining strong bones, supporting a healthy immune system, and promoting optimal vision and blood clotting.
Edible Parts Of Arugula And Their Flavor Profile
- All parts of the arugula plant are edible, including the leaves, seeds, and flowers.
- The leaves of arugula have a distinct spicy, peppery, and slightly tart taste, which adds a zesty kick to any dish.
- Arugula can be consumed raw or cooked, making it a versatile ingredient that enhances the flavor of salads, sandwiches, pasta dishes, and more.
Harvesting Methods: Leaf By Leaf Or Harvesting The Whole Plant
When it comes to harvesting arugula, there are two main methods to consider: the leaf by leaf method and harvesting the whole plant.
The leaf by leaf method involves cutting the stems of the leaves about an inch from the crown or leaf base. This allows new growth to develop in the center, ensuring continuous harvests throughout the growing season.
On the other hand, harvesting the whole plant is a suitable option if you need to make space for other plants or want to prevent the arugula from flowering.
When To Harvest Arugula And Ideal Growing Conditions
Arugula is a fast-growing crop that can be harvested approximately 20 to 50 days after sowing. To ensure the best results, it is recommended to harvest arugula when the plants have reached a height of at least 6 inches. This ensures that the leaves are large enough to eat, or alternatively, you can harvest them earlier for baby arugula leaves. For optimal growth, arugula thrives in spring and fall, with temperatures ranging between 60°F and 65°F. However, it’s important to note that arugula plants tend to stop producing leaves and begin preparing for flowering and re-seeding when temperatures rise to 70°F – 75°F.
Indicators Of Flowering And Risks Of Bitter Flavor
Recognizing the signs of flowering in arugula is crucial to maintaining the best flavor. Small, weedy-looking leaves that lack the signature lobed or rounded shape are indicators that the arugula plant is close to flowering. When the plant starts to produce flower stalks, the arugula leaves will undergo a change in flavor, becoming more bitter. Therefore, it is recommended to harvest the leaves before this stage to enjoy the optimal taste of arugula.
Storing Arugula: Methods And Shelf Life
To prolong the shelf life of arugula, proper storage techniques are essential. Arugula leaves can be stored in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer for up to 5 days. To prevent wilting, wrap them in damp paper towels or a damp cloth before placing them in a plastic bag or container. Alternatively, you can store the arugula leaves or whole plants with roots attached in a glass jar or upright container with an inch of water. This method can keep the arugula fresh for up to a week, ensuring that you can enjoy its flavor and nutritional benefits for an extended period.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you cut arugula so it keeps growing?
To ensure continuous growth of arugula, it is essential to adopt a selective harvesting technique. When cutting arugula, it is best to remove only a few leaves from each plant, allowing the remaining foliage to flourish for future harvests. By pinching off the larger leaves, approximately a quarter to a third of the plant material can be taken while leaving the rest intact. This approach allows the arugula plants to sustain their growth cycle and ensures a consistent supply of fresh leaves for further harvests.
Will arugula regrow after cutting?
Yes, arugula is known for its regrowth ability when it is cut. Rather than pulling the stems, it is advised to simply cut the leaves in order to ensure regrowth. Take caution, however, as arugula tends to bolt quickly in hot weather. If this occurs, you can still make use of the arugula by stripping its stems of leaves and incorporating both the leaves and flowers into your salads. Furthermore, the stems can be chopped and transformed into a flavorful pesto.
How long is arugula good for?
Arugula, the peppery leafy green, can stay fresh for a period of 3-4 days if stored properly. However, it is highly recommended to consume it as soon as possible for the best flavor and nutritional benefits. To extend its shelf life, you can preserve arugula by placing it upright in a glass of water in the refrigerator and loosely covering it with a plastic baggie to prevent moisture loss from the cold fridge air.
How do you eat mature arugula?
When it comes to enjoying mature arugula, there are numerous possibilities beyond the traditional salad. This versatile leafy green can be incorporated into various recipes to add a pleasantly bitter and peppery taste. Enhance the flavor of your soups by throwing in some mature arugula leaves, or sprinkle it as a unique pizza topping for a fresh twist. Another delightful option is to mix it into pasta dishes or finely chop it for savory fillings, allowing you to explore the many dimensions of this delicious ingredient.