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.
- Known for its peppery flavor, perfect for salads and garnishes.
- Harvest young leaves for the best taste and tenderness.
- Can be grown in containers or directly in garden beds.
- Attracts beneficial insects, enhancing garden biodiversity.
- Can be succession sown for a continuous harvest.
Plant Details:
- Plant Type: Annual herb; typically reaches 20-30 cm in height.
Sowing Information:
- Sow When:
- Temperate: Spring to early summer; ideal soil temperature 10-20°C. Avoid sowing in mid-summer heat.
- Subtropical: Autumn to early winter when temperatures are milder.
- Tropical: Sow during the coolest months (dry season) to reduce bolting.
- Cool: Early spring or late summer; rocket tolerates light frosts but may grow slowly in cold.
- Arid: Early spring or late summer; provide afternoon shade and regular water during hot periods.
- 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, especially in warmer climates.
- Sow Where: Directly into garden beds or in pots.
- Soil Type: Well-drained, fertile soil; pH 6 – 7; incorporate compost or aged manure before sowing.
- Rows: 30 – 45 cm apart for optimal growth.
- Spacing: 10 – 15 cm between plants.
Growing Tips for Australian Climates:
- Temperate: Keep soil evenly moist to prevent bitterness. Mulch around seedlings to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Subtropical: Use shade cloth during warm spells to slow bolting. Water regularly and harvest often to encourage new growth.
- Tropical: Sow in raised beds or containers to improve drainage during wet seasons. Choose a partly shaded spot to protect from harsh sun.
- Cool: Rocket tolerates light frost. Use row covers to extend the growing season into late autumn.
- Arid: Water frequently in dry conditions. Plant in early spring or late summer to avoid peak heat. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Details:
- Water soil gently after sowing and keep consistently moist during germination.
- Thin seedlings to correct spacing when large enough to handle.
- Harvest regularly to promote continuous leaf production.
Harvest:
35 – 45 days for baby leaves; 50 – 60 days for mature leaves.
