As the name suggests, Rocket is a fast growing crop, with its peppery flavour it lends itself well to salads, cheese dishes and even a topping on pizza. Ready to harvest in a matter of weeks from planting, it is suited to either being grown in the ground or in containers.
Planting Calendar
Rocket can be grown throughout the year.
Harvest In
30-40 Days
For the best flavour harvest when the leaves are young. Harvesting regularly will encourage new growth.
Prepare
Position
During the cooler months of the year, rocket is best planted in a sunny position. If planted in the hotter months, plant where rocket has some protection from the hot midday sun.
Soil
When planted into the ground, Rocket likes a free draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets and Grosafe Ocean Fert then mix together well. When growing in containers, plant into Kings Container mix or for an organic option use Living Earth Organic Vegetable Mix
Plant
Rocket can be sown directly into the garden, raised beds or containers that are at least 30cm deep. Or sown into a seed tray with Organic Seed raising mix and transplanted out once they have formed their second set of leaves. Gently remove the seedling from the tray and plant into the vegetable garden. Space plants 30cm apart so they have plenty of space to grow. Take care when transplanting so that the young soft roots are not damaged. Gently firm the soil down after planting and water in well with Aquaticus Garden Booster, this will help the seedlings settle in.
Care
Watering
Aim to keep the soil evenly moist, water slowly allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than allowing it to run off the top of the soil surface. Add Saturaid into the soil at planting as this will help channel the water deep down into the root zone.
Feeding
When planted in the ground liquid feed every month with Aquaticus Garden Booster, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health. If planted into a container, feed with Kings Liquid Fast Food along with monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster this encourages strong roots and a healthy immune system.
Protecting
Protect your young plants from hungry slugs and snails by applying regular applications of pet friendly Quash, re-apply after rain.
Spraying
Spraying is not usually required for Rocket.
General Care
When using sprays, chemicals or fertilisers always read the label and follow the instructions. Apply sprays in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Beginner Tip
Rocket has the best flavour when young, if left too long it can become bitter. Plant new crops every 2 weeks to provide yourself with a continued supply of Rocket.
Expert Tip
Rocket can bolt (go to seed) very quickly in hot dry conditions. Ensure that you provide adequate water during the growing season.
Tip
The best time to plant is early in the morning or later in the day once the sun has gone down, always water plants well before and after planting to reduce transplant shock.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water rocket?
Aim to keep the soil evenly moist, water slowly allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than allowing it to run off the top of the soil surface. Add Saturaid into the soil at planting as this will help channel the water deep down into the root zone.
When is the best time to plant rocket?
Plant rocket in early spring or autumn when temperatures are cooler. It can also be grown year-round in mild climates.
How do I harvest rocket?
For the best flavour harvest when the leaves are young. Harvesting regularly will encourage new growth.
What pests and diseases affect rocket?
Rocket can be affected by aphids, flea beetles, and slugs. It may also suffer from downy mildew. Regularly inspect plants and use organic pest control methods if needed.
How long does it take for rocket to grow?
Rocket is a fast-growing plant, typically ready to harvest in 4-6 weeks from sowing.
