VEGETABLE Rocket ‘Wild Sylvetta’ Seeds
Botanical name: Diplotaxis tenuifolia
Wild Rocket ‘Sylvetta’ is a slower-growing, more intensely flavoured alternative to cultivated rocket. Its finely divided, deeply lobed leaves have a stronger peppery bite, making it a gourmet favourite for salads and Italian dishes.
This hardy perennial herb grows well even in poor soils and is tolerant of heat, making it an excellent choice for summer salads when cultivated rocket tends to bolt.
- Also known as wild arugula or perennial rocket.
- Distinctive tangy, spicy flavour that intensifies with age.
- More heat-tolerant and bolt-resistant than cultivated rocket.
- Slow-growing but more productive over time; grows as a short-lived perennial in some climates.
- Highly nutritious and rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
- Great for gourmet salads, pesto, pizza toppings, and pasta dishes.
- Can be grown in containers, raised beds, or open garden soil.
- Cultivated rocket (Eruca sativa) seeds also available.
Growing Instructions (Baby Leaf/Full Maturity)
- Pick young leaves regularly for best flavour and to encourage new growth.
- Can be grown year-round in frost-free areas; best flavour develops in cooler conditions.
- Less prone to bolting than cultivated rocket, making it ideal for summer planting.
- Perennial in mild climates; grow as an annual in colder zones.
Plant Details:
Plant Type: Perennial leafy vegetable, typically grows 30 – 50 cm tall.
Sowing Information:
- Sow When:
- Temperate Climates: Spring through autumn.
- Tropical Climates: Sow in dry season or cooler months.
- Germination: 10 – 14 days
- Depth: Sow seeds 0.5 cm deep.
- Position: Full sun to part shade.
- Sow Where: Direct sow or raise in trays for transplanting.
- Soil Type: Prefers moderately fertile, well-drained soil (pH 6.0 – 7.5).
- Spacing: Thin seedlings to 15 – 20 cm apart.
Details:
- Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy.
- Remove flower heads if a continual supply of leaves is desired.
- Trim back hard if leaves become tough or plant bolts – it will regrow quickly.
Harvest:
Begin harvesting baby leaves at 4 – 6 weeks. Pick older leaves as needed or harvest entire plant at maturity for bulk use.
Growing Instructions (Microgreens):
- Grow in shallow trays using soil or coir peat; hydroponics not recommended.
- Do not pre-soak seeds.
- Evenly broadcast seeds onto moist medium and press down gently.
- Keep covered in a dark space for 2 – 3 days to encourage germination.
- Expose to indirect sunlight and water lightly once sprouted.
- Harvest at 8 – 14 days, once leaves reach 5 – 7 cm in height.
