Startup costs

Seed cost is moderate because plantings are often dense and repeated. Bed prep, irrigation, harvest knives, wash-pack equipment, drying setup, and cooler space are important startup items. Protected culture can be very useful for season extension and quality control.

Ongoing costs

Labor is moderate to high because arugula often requires multiple seedings, close harvest timing, washing, drying, and bagging. Flea beetles and heat can create extra management work. Fast cooling and moisture control are important for shelf life.

Yield & how it sells

Usually sold by weight in bags or clamshells, sometimes in salad mix. Productivity per area can be strong in cool weather, with quick turnover and multiple plantings possible. It is a relatively small-footprint crop that can carry good value if quality is high.

What makes it profitable

Often a moderate to higher margin crop in direct sales and local retail, especially when sold as part of a premium greens lineup. Margins depend on efficient wash-pack systems and consistent quality. It is best suited to farmers markets, CSA, restaurants, and retail accounts that already sell fresh salad greens.

Financial risks

Flea beetles, bolting, heat stress, and short shelf life are the main risks. Strong flavor can narrow the customer base if marketed poorly. Wet leaves at packout can lead to quick decline and shrink.

Tips to improve returns

Target cool-season windows and use insect protection where pressure is serious. Keep harvests young and consistent so flavor stays appealing and pack quality stays high. Use your local Cooperative Extension and Small Business Development Center to budget wash-pack labor, cooler capacity, and sales velocity.

General planning information, not financial or investment advice, and not a guarantee of profit. For real budgets, work with your Cooperative Extension office and local Small Business Development Center. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.