Watercress Seeds

Watercress is a fast-growing aquatic herb and leafy green prized for its crisp texture and distinctive peppery flavor. Considered one of the oldest cultivated salad plants, Watercress has been enjoyed for centuries in Europe, Asia, and North America and remains a favorite among gardeners and chefs alike.

Its glossy green leaves and small white flowers create an attractive display while providing a continuous harvest of nutrient-rich greens. Watercress thrives in moist conditions and is exceptionally well suited to containers where soil moisture can be carefully maintained.

Whether added to salads, sandwiches, soups, or garnishes, Watercress brings a refreshing flavor and attractive appearance to countless dishes.

• Fresh leaves add a crisp, peppery flavor to salads.
• Excellent in sandwiches, wraps, and fresh vegetable dishes.
• Popular ingredient in soups and traditional watercress recipes.
• Attractive garnish for meats, fish, and egg dishes.
• Suitable for container gardens and water features.
• Produces attractive white flowers that attract pollinators.

Watercress is ideal for container growing. Choose a wide container at least 8–12 inches deep and keep the soil consistently moist. Many gardeners successfully grow Watercress in containers placed in shallow trays of water to maintain the damp conditions the plant prefers.

Place containers in full sun to partial shade. In warmer climates, afternoon shade helps keep plants productive and prevents leaves from becoming overly strong in flavor.

Regular harvesting encourages fresh new growth and extends the productive season.

• Sow seeds on the surface of moist seed-starting mix.
• Press seeds lightly into the soil without deeply covering them.
• Keep soil consistently moist throughout germination.
• Maintain temperatures of 55–70°F (13–21°C).
• Seeds typically germinate in 5–14 days.
• Provide bright light after seedlings emerge.
• Transplant carefully to avoid disturbing roots.

• Botanical Name: Nasturtium officinale
• Common Name: Watercress
• Plant Type: Perennial Aquatic Herb
• Height: 6–12 inches
• Spread: 12–24 inches
• Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
• Water Requirements: High
• Soil: Rich, consistently moist soil
• USDA Zones: 5–9
• Container Size: 8–12 inches minimum depth

Begin harvesting once plants have developed several sets of leaves. Snip young stems and leaves regularly, leaving enough growth for the plant to continue producing.

For the best flavor, harvest young tender growth before flowering. Frequent cutting promotes fresh new growth and a longer harvest period.

Watercress is an easy-to-grow herb that offers exceptional flavor, attractive foliage, and continuous harvests throughout the growing season. Its peppery leaves add excitement to salads and sandwiches, while its adaptability to containers makes it perfect for patios, decks, and small-space gardens. Productive, attractive, and rewarding, Watercress is an excellent addition to any edible garden.