Arugula 'Wild'

Arugula

Zone 1b Save Garden

🌱 40d to harvest Rosette

Wild Arugula ’Wild’ bursts with a peppery, vividly green bite—crisp leaves that feel lively and springy in the hand. At about 40 …

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	May 4th
Last Frost	Jun 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jun 1st
Harvest Begins	Jul 11th
Harvest Ends	Aug 1st

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	40
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Rosette
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Surface
Germination Temp (°F)	60
Min Soil Temp (°F)	45
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	5

Recommended Companions

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I manage downy mildew and leaf spot on arugula ‘Wild’ if leaves get mottled or spotted?

Arugula ‘Wild’ commonly develops downy mildew/leaf spot when leaves stay wet; start by removing and discarding heavily spotted leaves and avoid overhead watering. Water at the soil line in the morning, keep plants spaced for airflow, and mulch lightly to reduce splash. If outbreaks spread, use a copper-based fungicide labeled for edible leafy greens and reapply according to the label after rain or new growth.

How often should I water arugula ‘Wild’ during the main growing phase to keep it from getting bitter?

During the 4–6 week growing window, keep the top 1 inch of soil consistently moist but not soggy—typically 1–2 inches of water per week depending on heat and container vs. ground. Water when the surface starts to dry and avoid letting plants swing between dry and wet, which can increase bitterness and premature bolting. In full sun, containers often need more frequent watering than beds to maintain steady moisture.

When is arugula ‘Wild’ ready to harvest, and what size should I cut?

Begin harvesting about 30–40 days after sowing when leaves are tender—usually 4–6 inches long for “cut-and-come-again.” Pick individual outer leaves or cut the whole plant at 4–6 inches tall early in the morning, and leave the inner rosette to regrow. If leaves become noticeably tough or sharp and plants bolt (flower stalks form), stop leaf harvest and plan to use flowers or let it go to seed.

Wild Arugula ’Wild’ bursts with a peppery, vividly green bite—crisp leaves that feel lively and springy in the hand. At about 40 days, the plants form an airy rosette of narrow, ruffled foliage with a distinctly wild look and a clean, assertive flavor that shines in fresh salads and quick tosses, as well as brightening sauces and finishing garnishes.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 45°F and nights stay above 35°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 5 days first.

Expert Note

For the most intense peppery flavor, grow arugula in cool weather and harvest often (young leaves taste best and bolt less).