HERB ‘Cress’ Seeds
Botanical Name: Lepidium sativum
Cress is a fast-growing annual herb known for its peppery flavor and crisp texture. This versatile herb can be grown both as a microgreen and as a mature plant. Cress is ideal for adding a zesty touch to salads, sandwiches, and garnishes. Its small, delicate leaves make it a popular choice for culinary use and quick home gardening.
Plant Type: Annual herb, suitable for cool and semi-shaded areas.
Plant Height: Grows up to 15 – 30 cm when fully mature.
Sow When:
- Temperate: All year round
- Subtropical: All year round
- Tropical: All year round
- Arid: April – All year round
- Cool: All year round
- All year round, indoors.
Germination: Seeds germinate best when soil temperatures are between 10°C and 20°C. Germination is fast, taking 5 – 7 days.
Depth: Sow seeds approximately 2 – 3 mm deep in the soil.
Position: Thrives in cool, semi-shaded spots with moist, well-drained soil.
Sow Where: Directly into garden beds, containers, or as a microgreen in trays.
Soil Type: Prefers fertile, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Spacing: Space plants approximately 15 cm apart for proper growth.
Harvest (Herb): Leaves can be harvested within 15 – 20 days for microgreens, or 40 – 50 days for full-sized plants.
Growing Instructions (Microgreens)
- Do not pre-soak seeds.
- Use approximately 10 grams of seeds for a 30 x 35 cm growing tray.
- Add 2 – 3 cm of soil to the tray. Flatten soil and moisten before sowing.
- Sprinkle seeds evenly over the soil surface and lightly water.
- Cover seeds with a growing tray and store in a well-ventilated, dark spot.
- Water 1 – 2 times daily during germination. Germination time is 5 – 7 days.
- After germination, remove the top tray and expose the plants to direct sunlight. Continue watering twice daily.
Harvest (Microgreens): 10 – 15 days after sowing. Cut microgreens 1-2 cm above the soil.