Rockets in Barr's Cottage
Eruca vesicaria
Fast-growing leafy salad rocket for the UK garden. Sow little and often from spring to early autumn for a steady supply of peppery leaves, and keep the soil evenly moist in warm spells to slow bolting.
Growing Guide
Step-by-step instructions for growing Rocket
Planting Calendar
Sow Small Batches
16 Feb – 18 Augevery 3 weeksSow a short row or scatter seed thinly around 16 Feb - 18 Aug. Sow to a depth of and repeat every 21 days for a steady run of leaves.
Thin Seedlings
28 May – 1 JunWhen seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them to apart so the leaves have room to size up. Snip the extras at soil level and use them in the kitchen.
Protect From Flea Beetle
25 May – 15 JunCheck from 25th May for tiny holes in the leaves, a common sign of flea beetle. Cover young plants with fine fleece or insect mesh to keep damage down while they establish.
Keep Evenly Watered
1 Jun – 29 Septevery weekFrom 1st June onward, water when the top of the soil begins to dry. Regular moisture helps stop plants from bolting, especially in warm, bright weather.
Harvest Leaves
17 Jun – 29 SeptStart picking around 17th June when leaves are big enough to eat, then keep cutting the outer leaves as needed. Harvest can continue through 17th June - 29th September if you keep plants watered and pick before they get coarse.
Companion Plants
Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Rocket.
Good companions
Plants to avoid
Why companion planting matters
Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.
Suggested Varieties
Popular varieties of Rocket to consider
Apollo
A quick-growing mild rocket with good leaf shape for cut-and-come-again picking.
Esmee
A reliable salad rocket with a neat habit and a steady peppery flavour.
Speedy
Selected for fast growth and useful if you want frequent small sowings.
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