Watercress is widely cultivated around the world.
Its leaves and young stems add a peppery bite to any salad, soup, or sandwich.
Plant watercress in early spring and harvest it before the onset of hot summer weather.
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Watercress is toxic to pets.
How to Plant Watercress
When to Plant
Plant watercress early in the spring.
Thin seedlings to 6 inches apart.
Watercress does not need any support.
The amount of time between waterings will vary based on factors such as rainfall frequency and humidity.
Otherwise, watercress does not have high nutrient needs.
There are many stages at which watercress can be harvested.
Watercressmicrogreenswill be ready to harvest within 10 to 15 days.
When they are about two inches tall, use scissors to cut the greens just above the soil.
Rinse the watercress microgreens in water before consuming them.
Watercress leaves and stems will be ready to harvest around three weeks after the sprouts first emerge.
Using scissors, carefully cut the stem close to the base.
To ensure the plant continues to grow, never harvest more than one-third of a plant’s leaves.
Choose a pot at least six inches wide with large drainage holes.
Use asoilless potting mixthat is mixed with peat to increase water retention.
Keep the potting mix moist by placing the pot in a saucer filled with water.
As watercress is mostly grown as an annual, repotting won’t be necessary.
Using a clean pair of pruning shears, cut the damaged stem away at its base.
Propagating Watercress
Watercress is easily propagated from stem cuttings by using the water method.
The best time to do this is in the spring.
Common Pests and Plant Diseases
Watercress has no major pest or disease problems.
It is susceptible to common insect problems includingwhiteflies,spider mites, and garden snails.
A strong spray of water helps to control insects before they become an infestation.
Watercress is botanically a perennial plant but home gardeners commonly grow it as an annual.
Watercress is not a native species, it has naturalized throughout North America.
It is considered a noxious weed or invasive plant in some regions.
How to Grow Watercress in Your Garden.
