Growing and Sowing Watercress

Growing watercress yourself is very easy. The most important thing is a well-moist soil. It is a fast-growing plant that can be harvested just a few weeks after sowing. Watercress has a somewhat spicy flavor and is often used in salads or as a side dish. Because it germinates so quickly and is easy to grow, sowing is also fun for children.

Growing watercress from seeds

Watercress, also known as yellowcress, is a green leafy vegetable and belongs to the cruciferous family. It is an easy-care, fast-growing plant that thrives best in moist soil. Watercress can be grown all year round, in the winter months on the windowsill. Watercress and garden cress are two different types of cress. They are related, but watercress has larger, dark green leaves.

Sowing and planting of watercress

Watercress is perennial and can be sown both outdoors and indoors. Indoors, it can be sown all year round. It is important that sowing is done in a planting pot or container with moist soil that is kept moist throughout growth. Outdoor sowing can be done under glass from mid-March to mid-April or in the garden from mid-May.

Buy watercress seeds >

Position and soil for cress

Watercress grows best in a shady spot. This prevents the soil from drying out too quickly. Water is the most important requirement for good plant growth. The soil can therefore be quite moist. Tin addition, the soil should also be rich in nutrients.

How to care for your watercress plants

The most important thing is watering, especially on hot summer days. Watercress absolutely does not tolerate drought. Fertilizing is basically not necessary, unless you sow several times in the same place.

When and how to harvest watercress?

As soon as the plants are large enough and have formed leaves, they can be harvested. Of course, you can only harvest as much as you need, but you should note that watercress grows quickly and the leaves spoil fast. So, it's better to harvest everything. The plant can then sprout again, so several harvests are possible.

How to preserve watercress

Watercress can only be kept in the refrigerator for a very short time, usually only one day. Freezing is not advisable, as the vegetables will then become very limp. Watercress can be dried in a dehydrator of oven at a low temperature and then stored airtight.

Is watercress healthy?

Watercress is very healthy and contains lots of vitamins, including A, C and D, and many minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium and iron. It also contains antioxidants. Watercress is said to, among other things, stimulate the metabolism and contribute to good digestion.

Watercress seeds in our collection

We have several varieties of watercress in our range, including an organic variety and also a complete herb package with 12 different herbs, including watercress.

Tips to grow watercress

Because watercress, like cress, is easy to cultivate and grows quickly, it is fun to grow with children.

Buy watercress seeds >