Winterharter Rucola, Wilde Rauke

Season Overview

Description

Compared to most of the aromatic herbs we use, rocket has taken the opposite route. It was the Germanic tribes who were already cultivating it when the Romans arrived. They brought the "rocket", as the herb is actually called in German, to the Mediterranean region. It was only from there that rocket returned to Germany. The spicy flavor comes from mustard oils. These help against many disease-causing bacteria and viruses. The young leaves of rocket are mainly used for salads, as the older leaves have a very intense, almost pungent taste. Harvest before flowering, as the leaves taste bitter afterwards. It is best to cut off the flower buds early. Bee-friendly.

Growing tips

Rocket loves sandy, loamy soil in a sunny position. A good supply of water is required, but waterlogging must be avoided. Hardy rocket is planted outdoors from May. Do not fertilize at all or only very sparingly, especially not with nitrogenous fertilizer. This would unnecessarily increase the nitrate content of the leaves. Hardy.

Details

Plant distance

1 cm

Row spacing

15 cm

Seeding depth

1 cm