Rocket's rise in popularity in the last decade has been nothing short of meteoric. Once a simple, wild leaf, while it has been in cultivation around its native Mediterranean for centuries, this fast-growing, strongly flavoured plant has only recently become popular in Britain.

How to Sow and Grow Rocket
Sow outdoors thinly where they are to crop, 0.5cm(¼in) deep directly into finely prepared soil which has already been watered. Allow 25cm(10in) between rows. Early sowings may benefit from cloche protection. Seedlings usually appear in 7-14 days. Water well and ensure soil remains moist to prevent plants running to seed. Thin out to 10cm(4in) apart, using thinnings in salads. No thinning is necessary if only baby leaves are required. Regular sowings made every two to three weeks will ensure a continuous supply. Take a few leaves from each plant and this will give up to four cuts or pick whole mature plants.