Watercress
nasturtium officinale
Also known as: ["Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum","Nasturtium microphyllum"]
Overview
A fast-growing, aquatic or semi-aquatic perennial herb with pungent, edible leaves and stems.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","culinary herb","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Nasturtium |
| Botanical Name: | Nasturtium officinale |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: moist garden beds or containers near water sources
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; prefers moist but not waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent leaf burn; provide afternoon shade in hot regions; adjust light exposure based on seasonal intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh midday sun; rotate plants for even growth.
Watering
every 3–5 days, or when top inch of soil feels dry
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow top inch of soil to dry between waterings, avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, rich, loamy soil with good drainage
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Keep soil consistently moist; avoid compacted soil; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); thrives in cooler climates.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize less in winter; apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are the most common method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium or water.
- Maintain moisture and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; keep soil consistently moist.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Optional, but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 1–3 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or containers.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems to promote compact growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or yellowing leaves; avoid cutting into old wood.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one (1–2 inches wider).
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Use fresh potting mix; ensure good drainage; water after repotting; avoid fertilizing for a few weeks.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the day to minimize fungal issues; ensure excess water drains away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during active growth; reduce watering slightly in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging; move potted plants to a warmer location if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, turn yellow, or develop brown edges; flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicWatercress is generally non-toxic to cats. Similar to dogs, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's oxalate content. The plant is not considered harmful and can be ingested in small amounts without significant risk.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in excessive quantities
Dogs
Non-toxicWatercress is not considered toxic to dogs. However, large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to its high oxalate content. The plant is not typically harmful and can be consumed in small amounts without adverse effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in excessive quantities
Humans
Non-toxicNasturtium officinale, commonly known as watercress, is generally considered safe for human consumption. However, excessive intake may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high oxalate content. The plant is rich in vitamins and minerals and is often used in culinary applications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in excessive quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is watercress safe for human consumption?
A: Yes, watercress is non-toxic and commonly consumed as a leafy green vegetable.
Q: How should watercress be grown?
A: Watercress thrives in moist or aquatic environments, requiring consistently damp soil or shallow water.
Q: Does watercress attract wildlife?
A: Yes, watercress attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its small, white flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 3–5 days, or when top |
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