Diplotaxis tenuifolia Rocket Napoli - Wild rocket

'Napoli' is an improved strain of wild rocket. It forms uniform, dark green leaves that have a stronger flavour than cultivated forms of rocket. The fast-growing, vigorous plants have an upright habit for easier harvesting. Sow the seeds from April to June for a delicious harvest from June to August.

Rocket, also known as arugula, is an aromatic, easy-to-grow, leafy vegetable. With its unique, peppery leaves, rocket is halfway between a salad green and a condiment. As well as bringing a punchy note to salad mixes, it is also a key ingredient in many Italian dishes such as lasagna and pizza. Rocket is a good source of vitamin C and iron. Wild rocket has smaller, stronger-flavoured leaves.

Rocket is fast-growing and can be harvested all year round if it is protected from the cold. It enjoys moist but well-drained soil, but will generally give good results in ordinary soil.

Harvest: harvest the leaves from May to October by cutting them off at ground level. For longer harvests, stagger your sowing. Wild rocket is harvested from July to August.

Storage: rocket will keep for a few days in the refrigerator, although its flavour is strongest when the leaves are freshly picked.

Good to know: flea beetles are partial to rocket leaves, which they will soon cover with small holes in dry, hot weather. The best way to keep flea beetles in check is by placing insect veils or fleece over your crops after sowing.