How to grow Garden Cress?

Also known as Peppergrass, Garden Cress tastes and looks similar to its close relative, Watercress, but is much easier to grow in the garden since it thrives in upland soils. The peppery tasting and nutritious leaves are great in sandwiches or as a garnish on fancy dishes.

Garden Cress History

Use of Garden Cress dates back to over two thousands years ago by the Persians. Throughout history it has been used to treat a variety of ailments while also serving other medicinal purposes. It's reportedly an appetite stimulant as well as an aphrodisiac. Garden Cress was introduced to North America from China.

Soil Preference

PH (min/max): 4.9 - 8.0
PH Ideal (min/max): 6.0 - 6.7

Garden Cress will tolerate most soil types, but will do best in fertile, moist soil that drains well.

How to care for Garden Cress?

Garden Cress is pretty easy to grow, but it doesn't last long before it [bolts]. In hot weather it [bolts] pretty quickly.

Keep soil evenly moist.

Prefers rich soil.

Seed Viability: 4 - 5 Years

The flowers have both male and female parts and produce seed readily (often too readily as premature [bolting] can be a problem). Put the ripe plants in a paper grocery bag to dry out and then crush them to release the seeds.

Part shade

Garden Cress is a cool weather crop and prefers part shade during warmer weather.

Conditions:Cool, Warm

Season:Short Season, Long Season

Store cress in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for a few days.

Storage Req: Refrigerator
Storage Temp: 35-40°F
Storage Length: 1-5 days

Problems

Flea Beetles and Other Pests

If Flea Beetles or other pests are bothering your plants try using [row covers]. Row covers also improve [germination] by keeping the soil moist and insulated.

Garden Cress Types

Garden Cress

Also known as Peppergrass, Garden Cress tastes and looks similar to its close relative, Watercress, but is much easier to grow in the garden since it doesn't need so much water. The peppery tasting and nutritious leaves are great in sandwiches or as garnish on fancy dishes.

Pests

Flea Beetle

Diseases

Damping Off

Get your Garden

What's Smart Gardener ?

The easiest way to plan, grow and harvest your own food....

It's an online vegetable garden planner for anyone who wants homegrown, healthy and tasty food to be part of their lifestyle...while having a busy life.

Find out more...

Join Now

Try it out!
Explore Maggies Garden...