Cress is a group of fast-growing leafy herbs known for their peppery flavor and impressive health benefits. Whether you’re growing garden cress on your windowsill, watercress in a pond, or land cress in your veggie patch, all types of cress are easy to grow and great for adding a fresh bite to your meals. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of cress, how to grow them indoors and outdoors, and how to eat them. We’ll also answer common questions like “How long does cress take to grow?” and “Can pets eat cress?”
- Name: Cress (Garden Cress, Watercress, Land Cress, and Persian Cress)
- Botanical Names: Lepidium sativum (Garden Cress), Nasturtium officinale (Watercress), Barbarea verna (Land Cress)
- Plant Family: Brassicaceae (Mustard Family)
- Native to: Various regions: Garden Cress originates from Persia, Watercress from Europe and Asia, Land Cress from the US and Europe. Today, all are widely grown globally.
Table of Contents
What is Cress?
Cress is a leafy green herb known for its peppery taste and fast growth. It’s commonly used in salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish. It’s easy to grow from seed and perfect for windowsills, classrooms, and gardens.
- Is cress a herb? Yes, it’s considered a herb.
- Is cress a vegetable? While used like a vegetable, it’s technically a fast-growing herb.
- Is cress good for you? Absolutely! It’s rich in vitamins A, C, and K, plus calcium and iron.
Types of Cress
There are several types of cress, each with slightly different flavors and growing requirements:
- Garden Cress (Lepidium sativum): The most popular type, often used in salads and egg sandwiches.
- Watercress (Nasturtium officinale): Prefers wet conditions like streams or containers with standing water.
- Land Cress (Barbarea verna): Also called American Cress, with a stronger taste and good soil tolerance.
- Persian Cress: A leafy variety that regrows after harvesting (cut-and-come-again).
How to Grow Garden Cress
Growing Cress in Cotton Wool
- Place damp cotton wool or paper towel in a shallow container.
- Sprinkle cress seeds evenly on top.
- Keep moist and place in a warm, sunny spot.
- Seeds germinate in 1–3 days and are ready to eat in 5–10 days.
Growing Cress in Soil
- Fill a pot or garden bed with moist, well-draining soil.
- Sow seeds thinly on the surface and gently press into the soil.
- Keep the soil moist; sprouts appear in 2–3 days.
Time to harvest: 7–10 days for baby leaves.
Sunlight: Needs some light; grows well on a sunny windowsill.
Regrowth: Persian cress can regrow after cutting.
Click here to find out more about growing cress with and without soil.
Growing Cress Indoors vs Outdoors
Indoors
Perfect for windowsills or under grow lights. Garden cress thrives in shallow containers. Watercress needs standing water and indirect light.
Outdoors
Garden cress prefers cool, moist soil. Watercress grows best near water or in a container with rich, wet soil in partial shade.
Problems with Growing Garden Cress Outdoors
Weeds
Weeds compete for nutrients. Mulch can help suppress weeds and maintain moisture.
Pests and Diseases
Watch for aphids, flea beetles, and downy mildew. Use neem oil and avoid overwatering to prevent rot.
How to Harvest and Store Garden Cress
- Harvest: Snip with scissors about 1 cm above the base. Best fresh.
- Storage: Keep in a reusable bag or container in the fridge. Use within 2–3 days.
- Seed Saving: Let plants flower and dry. Collect seeds from pods and store in a paper envelope.
How to Eat Cress
- Egg and Cress Sandwich: A classic combo with chopped eggs and cress.
- Salads: Adds a peppery punch to mixed greens.
- Garnishes: Sprinkle on soups, stir-fries, or toasts.
Egg and Cress Sandwich: A classic combo with chopped eggs and cress.Can you eat cress seeds? Yes, but they’re usually sprouted or soaked first.
Can Pets Eat Cress?
Many pets can enjoy small amounts of fresh cress:
- Rabbits: Yes, in moderation.
- Guinea Pigs: Yes, occasionally.
- Budgies: Yes, small amounts are safe.
- Bearded Dragons: Yes, but limit the amount.
- Cats: Yes, as a treat.
- Chickens: Yes, they love leafy greens.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cress
- How long do cress seeds take to germinate? 1 to 3 days.
- How long does cress take to grow? Usually 7–10 days.
- Is cress the same as watercress? No, they are different species with different needs.
- Where can I buy cress seeds? From local garden centres or online, like at Seedmart Australia.
Garden Cress vs. Watercress
🌱 Garden Cress (Lepidium sativum)
- Family: Brassicaceae (mustard family)
- Growth Habit: Fast-growing, small annual herb
- Flavor: Peppery, tangy, similar to mustard
- Growing Conditions: Moist soil or cotton wool; does not require standing water
- Common Uses: Sprouts for sandwiches, salads, garnishes
- Time to Harvest: Very quick—5–10 days
💧 Watercress (Nasturtium officinale)
- Family: Brassicaceae (same family, different genus)
- Growth Habit: Perennial aquatic or semi-aquatic plant
- Flavor: Peppery but milder and more delicate than garden cress
- Growing Conditions: Requires flowing water or wet soil
- Common Uses: Salads, soups, sandwiches (popular in British cuisine)
- Time to Harvest: Slower to mature; usually harvested as mature leaves
Cress is a fun, fast, and healthy herb to grow at home. Whether for your meals or your pets, it’s a rewarding plant that’s full of flavour and nutrients. Perfect for all ages and gardening levels!
Ready to grow your own cress? Buy garden cress seeds now at Seedmart Australia and start harvesting fresh greens in just days!
