Growing Arugula Indoors in a Mini Pot — Do You Really Have to Eat It?

If you think arugula is just for salads, think again. Here's a charming journey of growing arugula not as a leafy green for the plate, but as a delightful houseplant in a handmade mini ceramic pot.

1. From Seeds to Sprouts: Sowing Arugula

I sowed five old arugula seeds on February 12. Although my original plan was to harvest the leaves for salads, I changed direction—I decided to raise it as a decorative plant instead.

By April 4, all five sprouts were thriving in a nursery tray, grouped together like close friends. Had I moved them to a larger pot with ample sunlight, I could have harvested multiple times by now.

2. Growing in Limited Indoor Space

Instead, I kept the seedlings under grow lights, gave them just the right amount of water, and watched them adapt beautifully to the indoor environment.

They lived in a small space for two months, and eventually, I decided it was time for a new home—a pot upgrade!

One of the best feelings for any plant parent? Pulling a plant out of its pot in one piece, roots and all. It feels like a tiny victory every time.

3. Repotting into a DIY Mini Ceramic Pot

Tada! I repotted the arugula into a handmade mini ceramic container made from foamed ceramic powder and a mold. It turned out quite cute, if I may say so myself!

Even in its new pot, the arugula continues to grow steadily. Old leaves fall like autumn foliage, while new ones sprout gently.

4. Arugula in a Basil Jungle

This variety might have originally been mini arugula, because it fits perfectly with the lush basil forest growing nearby.

Can you spot the arugula hidden among the basil leaves?

5. FAQ: Can I Really Grow Plants Without Sunlight?

Q. I don’t get much sunlight. Can I still grow plants?

A. Absolutely! Some plants are fussier than others, but with proper grow lights and watering, indoor gardening is entirely possible. I've grown and harvested basil this way.

Q. Watering is hard for me.

A. Totally understandable. Try using a transparent slit pot and practice with a low-maintenance plant like Scindapsus for three weeks. Your confidence will grow along with your plants!

Q. I’m busy. Do I really need to grow plants?

A. Honestly, you don’t. After a long, tiring day, the last thing you want is another chore. Watering, repotting, pest control—it can be a lot. But here's the thing:

Nature gives back. Plants emit a kind of healing energy that words can’t quite capture. It's subtle, yet powerful. And that’s what makes it worth it.