How to Grow Land Cress and Watercress

Watercress is a dark green, leafy vegetable with a bitter, peppery taste. Its bitter taste is cause for most people to avoid it. This member for the mustard family grows in streambeds, another reason it is not found in the home garden. Watercress is harvested before the flowers bloom as it becomes too bitter and pungent to eat.

It is used in salads, and as a garnish. It is very perishable, so plan to buy it the day you serve it. You can keep it in the refrigerator for short periods of time but keep it in water.

Herbal applications: Watercress is used for bladder and kidney problems.

Ideal Soil pH:

Land Cress: 6.5 – 7.5

Watercress: 6.0 – 6.8

Days to Harvest:

Land Cress: 15 – 20 days

Watercress: 14 – 15 days