Watercress

Germination

Sow successionally from spring-autumn. Sow indoors Mar-Apr or directly Apr-May. Sow seeds into very moist seed compost in pots or trays. Ideal temp. 16-18°C. Germination takes 7-10 days. When seedlings are large enough to handle transplant to 8cm pots which are lined with polythene to retain water. Plant out into running water or into soil with 10cm spacing. Ensure soil planted plants have consistently moist roots.

Growing

Water copiously throughout the growing season. Weed as required. If container growing in standing water, change water daily. If you would not drink the water you should not eat the water cress!

Cultivation

Water cress produces small white flowers, harvest the crop regularly to prevent these flowers forming or deadhead. The flowers will cause bitter, tough leaves. Harvest by trimming off the tops of the shoots with scissors to about half the plant height. Plant will regenerate side shoots. Cut and come again 2-3 times or more. older plants produce a stronger flavour and tougher stalks.