SoCal Home Gardening

Comparison of With Other Varieties

Arugula, also known as rocket or salad rocket, is a popular leafy green vegetable that adds a peppery and nutty flavor to dishes. When it comes to arugula varieties, one of the options available is the "long standing" variety. Let's delve into its characteristics and understand how it differs from other arugula types.

The term "long standing" refers to the ability of the plants to resist bolting for an extended period. Bolting is when a vegetable starts to produce flowers and go to seed, typically in response to high temperatures or long day lengths. In the case of arugula, bolting causes the leaves to become bitter and inedible. However, long standing arugula varieties are bred to resist bolting for a longer period, providing a more extended harvest window compared to other arugula varieties.

The primary advantage of long standing arugula is its ability to withstand warmer temperatures and continue producing high-quality leaves without premature bolting. This benefit makes it particularly suitable for gardeners living in regions with hot weather or those who want to extend their arugula harvest into the summer months. Additionally, it can be advantageous for commercial growers since it allows for a more consistent and prolonged crop availability.

In terms of taste and texture, long standing arugula does not differ significantly from other arugula varieties. It maintains the same distinctive peppery and slightly bitter flavor that arugula is known for. However, its improved bolting resistance gives it a strategic advantage in certain growing conditions.

The long standing variety of arugula has a relatively recent history. It was developed through selective breeding techniques to introduce the bolting resistance trait into the existing arugula gene pool. This process involved evaluating and crossbreeding different arugula plants to identify those with the most desirable long-standing qualities. Over time, breeders were able to stabilize the variety, resulting in a reliable and widely available option for gardeners.

As for where people can buy the long standing variety, it is readily available through various seed catalogs, online seed retailers, and local gardening stores. Additionally, many nurseries and garden centers offer starter plants of long standing arugula during the growing season. It's always a good idea to check with local gardening resources or conduct an online search to find the most convenient and reliable sources for purchasing long standing arugula seeds or plants in your area.

In conclusion, long standing arugula is a variety that offers improved resistance to bolting, allowing for a more extended harvest period. Its ability to withstand warmer temperatures extends the availability of fresh, flavorful arugula leaves and is particularly beneficial for growers in hotter climates. With its distinctive taste and wider harvest window, the long standing variety of arugula adds a valuable option to any vegetable garden or culinary adventure.