ROCKET ‘Cultivated’ Vegetable Seeds
Botanical Name: Eruca sativa
Other Names: Arugula, Salad Rocket, Speedy Rocket
Important Notice: These seeds have been treated with a fungicide (Thiram). Do not consume the seeds or feed them to animals. Fungicide treatment is a requirement under AQIS regulations for certain seed varieties. This treatment does not affect the growth of your crops or pose a risk to beneficial insects like bees. We make every effort to source untreated seed stock whenever possible; however, availability in Australia is extremely limited.
- Fast-growing leafy green that thrives in cool weather.
- Peppery flavour perfect for salads, garnishes, and sandwiches.
- Harvest young leaves for the best taste and tenderness.
- Can be grown in containers or directly in garden beds.
- Attracts beneficial insects, supporting garden biodiversity.
- Ideal for succession sowing to ensure a continuous harvest.
Plant Details
- Plant Type: Annual herb, typically 20–30 cm tall
Sowing Information
- Germination: 7–14 days
- Depth: 0.5–1 cm deep; lightly cover with soil
- Position: Full sun to partial shade; protect from intense midday heat in warm climates
- Sow Where: Directly into garden beds or in pots
- Soil Type: Well-drained, fertile soil with pH 6–7; incorporate compost or aged manure before sowing
- Spacing: 10–15 cm between plants, rows 30–45 cm apart
Growing Tips
- Keep soil evenly moist to prevent bitterness and promote tender leaves.
- Mulch around seedlings to retain moisture and reduce weeds.
- Thin seedlings once large enough to handle to ensure proper spacing.
- Harvest frequently to encourage new growth and delay bolting.
Harvest
35–45 days for baby leaves; 50–60 days for mature leaves. Pick regularly for the best flavour and continuous production.
When to Sow Rocket in Your Climate
Climate Zone | Best Planting Time | Tips |
---|---|---|
Temperate | Spring to early summer | Avoid mid-summer heat. Keep soil moist to prevent bitterness. |
Subtropical | Autumn to early winter | Use shade cloth during warm spells. Water and harvest regularly. |
Tropical | Coolest months (dry season) | Grow in partial shade. Improve drainage during wet periods. |
Cool | Early spring or late summer | Tolerates light frost. Use row covers to extend the season. |
Arid | Early spring or late summer | Provide afternoon shade. Water frequently and mulch well. |