ster ericoides (Heath Aster) - Authentic Seeds - Perennial~GMO Free~~Flower seeds ~ Asian Garden~ Herbs 8047 ^Sale

Step-by-Step Guide
1. Seed Preparation
No Special Preparation Needed: Arugula seeds, including the Astro variety, do not require any special pre-treatment like stratification or scarification. They are ready to be sown directly into the soil.
2. Sowing Seeds
Indoor Sowing
Timing: Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost. This gives the seedlings a head start and ensures they are ready for transplanting outdoors.
Containers: Use seed trays or small pots with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Soil: Use a well-draining seed starting mix. Arugula prefers a light, airy mix that prevents waterlogging.
Planting Depth: Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep in the soil. Cover lightly with soil and press gently to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Watering: Moisten the soil with a spray bottle to keep it consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Outdoor Sowing
Timing: Sow seeds directly outdoors in early spring or late summer for fall harvest. Arugula can be sown as soon as the soil can be worked in spring, and again in late summer for a fall crop.
Location: Choose a spot with full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Arugula grows best in cooler temperatures.
Planting Depth: Scatter the seeds in rows or broadcast them over the garden bed, covering them lightly with about 1/4 inch of soil.
Watering: Water gently to keep the soil moist until seeds germinate.
3. Germination Conditions
Temperature: Maintain a soil temperature of 40-75°F (5-24°C). Arugula seeds will germinate well in cooler temperatures.
Light: Arugula seeds need some light to germinate well. Ensure they are not covered too deeply and receive plenty of light.
Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mist the soil surface with water if it starts to dry out. Covering the soil with a thin layer of fine soil or vermiculite can help retain moisture.
4. Germination Time
Expect germination in about 5-7 days under optimal conditions.
5. Seedling Care
Thinning: Once the seedlings are a few inches tall and have developed their first true leaves, thin them out to prevent overcrowding. Space them about 6 inches apart to ensure they have room to grow.
Light: Ensure seedlings receive plenty of light. If growing indoors, place them in a sunny window or under grow lights for at least 6-8 hours a day.
Watering: Continue to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water gently to avoid displacing the seedlings.
6. Transplanting
Hardening Off
Timing: Begin hardening off seedlings about a week before transplanting them outdoors. This helps them acclimate to the outdoor environment and reduces transplant shock.
Method: Gradually expose the seedlings to outdoor conditions, starting with a few hours of sunlight per day and increasing the duration over several days.
Outdoor Planting
Timing: Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost date and when they are sturdy enough to handle.
Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Arugula grows best in full sun to partial shade.
Spacing: Space the plants about 6 inches apart to allow for growth and airflow. This helps prevent disease and promotes healthy growth.
7. Ongoing Care
Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil moist, especially during dry spells. Arugula prefers consistent moisture but does not like to be waterlogged. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage.
Mulching: Apply a thin layer of mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. This also helps maintain an even soil temperature.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once during the growing season if necessary. Arugula is not a heavy feeder, so over-fertilizing is not required.
Pruning: Harvest the outer leaves first by cutting them with scissors or pinching them off. This encourages continuous growth and a prolonged harvest period.
8. Pest and Disease Management
Monitoring: Watch for common pests such as flea beetles, aphids, and slugs. If necessary, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Disease Prevention: Ensure good air circulation around the plants to prevent fungal diseases. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of leaf spot and mildew.
Companion Planting: Consider planting arugula with companions like radishes or lettuce to help deter pests.
Summary of Growing Duration
From Sowing to Germination: Approximately 5-7 days.
From Planting to Harvest: Arugula is typically ready to harvest in about 20-30 days after planting.
Full Harvest: Leaves can be harvested as needed, cutting outer leaves first for continuous growth.
Additional Tips
Soil Preference: Arugula thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral pH. Adding compost can help improve soil fertility and structure.
Sunlight: Provide full sun for the best growth and flavor. Arugula can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy and less flavorful.
Succession Planting: Sow seeds every 2-3 weeks to ensure a continuous supply of fresh arugula throughout the growing season.
Cold Tolerance: Arugula is relatively cold-hardy and can tolerate light frosts. It’s a great crop for extending the growing season into early spring and late fall.
Heat Sensitivity: In hot weather, arugula may bolt (flower and go to seed). Planting in partial shade or using shade cloth can help extend its growing season in warmer climates.
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? Please note that we cannot guarantee the success of seeds or plants because these aspects
depend on the environment in which they are cultivated.