Fertilizing Your Arugula Plant:
The Dos and Don’ts

Arugula is a popular leafy green vegetable that is easy to grow and adds a unique flavor to salads and sandwiches. To ensure that your arugula plants grow healthy and produce a bountiful harvest, it is important to fertilize them properly. In this article, we will discuss the dos and don’ts of fertilizing arugula plants.

Dos

Use Organic Fertilizers

Organic fertilizers are the best choice for arugula plants because they are gentle on the soil and do not contain harsh chemicals that can harm your plants or the environment. Compost, manure, bone meal, and fish emulsion are all good options for organic fertilizers.

Apply Fertilizer Regularly

Arugula plants grow quickly and require regular feeding to keep them healthy. It is recommended to apply fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. This will ensure that your arugula plants receive the nutrients they need to thrive.

Apply Fertilizer Around the Base of Plants

When applying fertilizer, it is important to apply it around the base of the arugula plant and not directly on the leaves. This will allow the roots to absorb the nutrients from the fertilizer more efficiently.

Water Your Plants After Fertilizing

After applying fertilizer, make sure to water your arugula plants thoroughly. This will help the fertilizer penetrate the soil and reach the roots of your plants.

Don’ts

Over-Fertilize Your Plants

Over-fertilizing your arugula plants can cause more harm than good. Too much fertilizer can burn the roots of your plants and damage them. It is important to follow the instructions on your fertilizer package carefully and avoid over-fertilizing.

Use Chemical Fertilizers

Chemical fertilizers can be harmful to both your plants and the environment. They can also lead to nutrient imbalances in the soil, which can negatively affect plant growth. It is best to use organic fertilizers whenever possible.

Apply Fertilizer Late in the Season

Applying fertilizer late in the growing season can cause your arugula plants to put all their energy into producing new leaves instead of producing seeds. This can result in a smaller harvest. It is recommended to stop fertilizing your plants two to three weeks before you plan to harvest them.

Apply Fertilizer When Plants Are Wet

Applying fertilizer when your arugula plants are wet can cause the nutrients in the fertilizer to evaporate before they have a chance to be absorbed by the soil. It is best to apply fertilizer when your plants are dry.

FAQ

Q: How often should I fertilize my arugula plants?

A: It is recommended to fertilize your arugula plants every two weeks during the growing season.

Q: Can I use chemical fertilizers on my arugula plants?

A: It is best to use organic fertilizers whenever possible because chemical fertilizers can be harmful to both your plants and the environment.

Q: When should I stop fertilizing my arugula plants?

A: It is recommended to stop fertilizing your arugula plants two to three weeks before you plan to harvest them.

Q: Can I apply fertilizer directly on my arugula leaves?

A: No, it is important to apply fertilizer around the base of your arugula plant and not directly on the leaves.

Q: What are some good organic fertilizers for arugula plants?

A: Compost, manure, bone meal, and fish emulsion are all good options for organic fertilizers for arugula plants.