The aquatic plant known as watercress, or Nasturtium Officinale, is a member of the mustard family. It naturally grows near water. Watercress can still be a simple addition to your yard even though the majority of us are not fortunate enough to have a stream in our backyards.
Best Growing Conditions
Light & Temperature
Watercress prefers cool temperatures and lots of moisture. It can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 3-11, as long as the temperatures remain above freezing. In warmer climates, watercress can also be grown indoors under fluorescent lights.
The plant does best in bright indirect light, but can tolerate some shade. When grown indoors, watercress should be placed near a window where it will receive some sunlight.
Soil
Watercress can be grown in the ground or in containers, and tolerates a wide range of soil types. However, watercress does best in soils that are high in organic matter and rich in nutrients. The soil in which watercress grows is important to the flavor of the plant. Watercress that is grown in nutrient-rich soil will have a milder flavor than watercress that is grown in poorer quality soil.
Water
Watercress should be watered regularly, especially during hot weather. The soil should be kept moist, but not soggy. If the leaves begin to wilt, this is a sign that the plant is not getting enough water. Over-watering can also be a problem, as it can lead to fungal diseases. Thus, it is important to strike a balance when watering watercress.
Nutrition & Fertilizer
Because watercress takes up nutrients quickly, watercress needs to be fertilized regularly. The best fertilizer for watercress is high in nitrogen, which helps the plant to produce more leaves.
There are several types of nitrogen-rich fertilizers available, including compost, manure, and bloodmeal. When applied regularly, these fertilizers will help to keep your watercress healthy and productive.
How Long Does It Take To Grow?
Watercress is a vigorous and fast-growing plant, so it doesn't take long to see results when growing it at home. Sow watercress seeds indoors about six weeks before the last expected frost date. You can also direct sow watercress seeds outdoors once the soil has warmed in spring.
How To Grow Indoors
Watercress is relatively easy to grow, and it does not require a lot of space. In fact, watercress will even grow in a pot on a windowsill. The key to success is to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Watercress likes partial shade, so it is best to plant it in an area that receives some sunlight throughout the day. Follow our tips below on how to grow watercress indoors:
- Buy the seeds for the watercress. You can buy seeds online or in nurseries and stores that sell gardening supplies. English watercress and broad leaf cress are two common types of watercress.
- Get the planting pot ready. Select a sizable planter or container that is at least 6 inches deep and has drainage holes. To ensure proper drainage, fill the container's bottom layer with small stones.
- Place the planting pot on top of a bigger drainage tray or bucket. The plant requires frequent watering. Its soil should always be moist. To keep the plant moist, pour extra water into the tray or bucket.
- Put potting soil in the growing container. Use a soilless mixture using peat moss, perlite, or vermiculite that drains effectively. Water the mixture thoroughly, leaving about two inches of room at the top of the container. The potting mix's optimal pH range is between 6.5 and 7.5.
- With three to four inches between each seed, plant the seeds in the potting soil at a depth of 1/4 inch.
How To Grow Outdoors
When growing watercress outdoors, it is important to choose a location that gets plenty of sunlight and has good drainage. The soil should also be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Watercress is typically grown from seedlings, which can be purchased from a garden center or online retailer. Follow these tips to grow watercress outdoors:
- Begin by seeding or growing mature watercress. Mature watercress is available at grocery stores and farmers markets. Simply give the stalks' bases a few days of water soaking to promote root development, and then plant them in soil just like you would from seeds.
- Watercress thrives in areas that are cool, sunny, and partially shaded. The best place to grow watercress is in the shallow part of a freshwater stream or creek that flows continuously, but you can also make your own pool of water.
- Dig a hole that is about two feet across and 12 inches deep. A thick sheet of strong plastic pond lining should be used to line the bottom and sides, leaving a four-inch lip at the top and a few drainage holes in the sides.
Care & Maintenance
Watercress is a lovely addition to any garden, and it's relatively easy to care for. The key to keeping watercress healthy is to make sure it has plenty of water. Watercress likes moist soil, so it's important to water it regularly, especially during hot weather.
Pests & Disease
Common Pests
Flea and mustard bugs are drawn to watercress. Spend an hour submerging your plant in water to get rid of these pests. Your plant won't mind getting wet, and the bugs will drown. A few radish plants could also be grown close to your watercress. The bugs will be driven away by the radishes.
Storage
The best way to store watercress is to place it in a bowl of ice water. This will keep the leaves crisp and prevent them from wilting. The water should be changed daily, and the watercress should be used within a few days for the best flavor and quality.
Conclusion
Watercress is a lively addition to any garden, with its bright green leaves and peppery flavor. It's also one of the easiest plants to grow, and can be started from seed or cuttings. Watercress thrives in moist soil, so it's a good plant to grow near a pond or stream. It will also do well in a pot that's kept moist.