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Fruit
Watercress

Watercresses in Barnhill

Nasturtium officinale

Watercress is a hardy perennial leafy crop that grows best in shallow running water or very wet soil. In the UK it’s usually grown outdoors in a pond basket, streamside bed, or container kept constantly wet, and it gives the best leaves in cool weather.

Height20cm
SunlightPartial Shade
WaterHigh Water

Growing Guide

Step-by-step instructions for growing Watercress

Planting Calendar

Seed DirectLater
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
TransplantLater
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
FertiliseNow
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
HarvestNow
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
ObservationLater
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

  1. Sow Seeds

    11 Feb – 14 May
    every 3 weeks

    Sow seeds around 11th February - 14th May on the surface of very moist compost, then press them in lightly rather than burying them. Keep the compost constantly damp while they germinate, and sow a fresh batch every 21 days for a steady supply.

  2. Thin Seedlings

    12 Apr – 19 Apr

    When seedlings are large enough to handle, from 12th April, thin them so the strongest plants have room to spread. Keep the soil wet at all times, because even brief drying checks growth.

  3. Transplant

    30 Mar – 11 May

    Move seedlings to their final spot around 30th March - 11th May, spacing them well apart in mud-like soil or a shallow run of water. Water in thoroughly straight after planting and keep the roots submerged or constantly wet.

  4. Feed Plants

    20 Apr – 21 Oct
    every 2 weeks

    From 20th April, give a very light liquid feed every 14 days if growth slows, but avoid strong feeding that makes the leaves coarse. Keep the bed weed-free and topped up with water.

  5. Harvest Leaves

    17 May – 21 Oct

    Start cutting from 17th May when plants are well rooted and the shoots are leafy. Pick little and often through to 21st October, taking the outer stems first and leaving the centre to regrow.

Companion Plants

Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Watercress.

Good companions

Plants to avoid

Why companion planting matters

Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.

Also in nearby towns

See how Watercress timing shifts in other towns with different frost dates.