Peppery, nutty salad leaves ready to pick in as little as four weeks — among the fastest crops you can grow. Sow little and often, as heat sends it quickly to flower.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Mature size: 30 cm tall
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Rocket
Botanically, Eruca vesicaria is a fast-growing edible plant in the Brassicaceae family. It reaches around 30 cm tall at maturity.
Where to grow Rocket
Rocket suits warm-temperate, cool-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Rocket provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Rocket does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Rocket in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Rocket in the garden
Rocket earns its place for edible harvests and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Rocket with species that also favour regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Rocket
Plant Sale lists Rocket as potted plants and seed. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Rocket seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
