Introduction
Rocket, also known as arugula, is a peppery and flavorful leafy green that can be grown successfully in the United Kingdom. With its distinctive taste and nutritional benefits, growing rocket in your garden can be a rewarding experience. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of growing rocket, from selecting the right variety to providing the necessary care for a bountiful harvest. Let's get started!
Choosing the Right Variety
When it comes to rocket, there are several varieties suitable for the UK climate. Here are some popular choices:
- 'Wild Rocket': A popular variety known for its strong, peppery flavor and deeply serrated leaves.
- 'Cultivated Rocket': This variety produces milder-tasting leaves with a slightly nutty flavor.
- 'Sylvetta': An outstanding variety that offers a wilder, more pungent flavor compared to cultivated rocket.
- 'Dragon's Tongue': This variety has attractive, deeply lobed leaves and a slightly spicy taste.
Sowing and Planting
Rocket is typically grown from seeds. Follow these steps to sow and plant your rocket:
- Sowing method: Directly sow rocket seeds in the garden from early spring to late summer. Plant them about 1/4 inch deep and space them 6-8 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart.
- Succession planting: To ensure a continuous harvest, sow new seeds every few weeks.
- Soil conditions: Rocket prefers well-drained soil that is fertile and rich in organic matter. Prepare the soil by incorporating compost or well-rotted manure.
- Watering: Water the soil thoroughly after sowing to help the seeds germinate. Keep the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season.
Growing
To ensure healthy growth and a bountiful harvest of rocket, consider the following tips:
- Sunlight: Rocket plants thrive in full sun to partial shade. Aim to provide them with at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells. Rocket requires regular watering to prevent wilting and bolting.
- Soil conditions: Rocket prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Mulching around the plants can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilizing: Rocket is a relatively low-maintenance plant and doesn't require heavy fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer or side-dress with compost if desired.
- Harvesting: Rocket leaves can be harvested when they are young and tender. Harvest by cutting the outer leaves, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing. Regular harvesting promotes new growth.
Conclusion
Growing rocket in the United Kingdom allows you to enjoy the peppery flavor and nutritional benefits of this versatile leafy green. By choosing the right variety, providing proper care, and addressing common challenges, you can cultivate healthy rocket plants that add zest to your culinary creations. Whether you use them in salads, pizzas, or as a topping for sandwiches, homegrown rocket will surely enhance your culinary experiences. Happy rocket growing!