Wild Rocket Sylvetta - Arugula

'Sylvetta' wild rocket (Diplotaxis erucoides) is a very aromatic, easy-to-grow leaf vegetable. It has smaller, stronger-flavoured leaves than ordinary rocket and is slower growing. Sow from March to September. Harvest 2 months after sowing.

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.

Rocket is fast-growing and can be harvested all year round providing it is protected from the cold. It enjoys moist, cool, free-draining 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 installing insect veils or fleece over your crops after sowing.