ARUGULA

Sow, harvest & enjoy ... ARUGULA

Arugula, also known as rocket or roquette, actually is an herb but sometimes mistaken as lettuce leaves. The rich and strong peppery taste comes from the fact that Arugula is a member of the mustard family. The Mediterranean herb is most delicious in salads, but also suitable for cooking in combination with other vegetables, as an ingredient for pasta sauces or as pizza topping.

PLANTING

Growing ARUGULA is easy. Arugula seeds are best sown in any good fertile and well drained soil from April to September or in early Spring, as soon as the soil can be worked.

Seeds must be sown 1/2 inch deep in rows 12 inches apart. While Arugula loves well drained, composted and fertile soil and sunny season, the seeds should be protected from direct sunlight and from freezing temperature.

Once seedlings are 2 to 3 inches tall thin out to 3 - 4 inches apart and provide an airy place in the shade.

Harvest by picking the young leaves and let the plant generate new leaves for months to come. Pinch out flower buds as they appear to prolong the growing season.

INDOOR PLANTING

Choose a tray, small clay pot or window box and fill with moisture-retentive potting soil. Allow room for root development by using a container at least 4 inches deep with holes in the bottom for drainage. If you have a compost system add 1/2 cup of composted soil as fertilizer. It is recommended to moisten the soil by watering it thoroughly a few hours before planting - make sure it is not soggy but not too dry either.

Scatter arugula seeds about 1/2 inch apart on the surface of the soil, and then cover with 1/8 to 1/4 inch of soil. Water soil gently after sowing but do not disturb the seeds. Place the container in a semi-shady area of your house - for successful growing of arugula it is important that the pot gets about 4 hours of sunlight per day. Arugula prefers indirect sunlight over direct light.

Arugula germination doesn't take long, seedlings often emerge in less than one week. Thin out seedlings to 4 - 6 inches apart when they are 2 - 3 inches tall. Keep watering carefully and soil moist but not soggy and make sure that the pot does not sit in standing water.

Arugula is ready for harvesting after 40 days from planting date or when the plants are about 6 inches tall. Remove dead or yellowed leaves once a week to maintain plant health. When harvesting outer leaves only by cutting the leaves close to the base, the inner leaves are allowed to continue growing.

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NUTRITIONAL VALUE

High in vitamin A and C, but low in calories (20 g of arugula have only 5 cal), Arugula is also considered one of the most useful and healthiest natural superfoods. Also great source of dietary fiber, vitamins K and P, iron, potassium and other nutrients and minerals.

MEDICINAL PROPERTIES

Improved blood quality

Positive effects on liver function

Anti-ulcer effects

Reduces stomach acid secretion

Meditates the activity of hormones

Provides energy & power

http://guide2herbalremedies.com/health-benefits-of-arugula/

BON APPETIT!

Arugula Pineapple Pizza - Courtesy DIVINE HEALTHY FOOD

Arugula Pesto Pasta - Courtesy GIRL MAKES FOOD