Cress
lepidium sativum
Also known as: ["Garden Cress","Pepper Cress","Passion Cress","Sarson"]
Overview
An annual herb with peppery-flavored leaves, often used in salads and sandwiches.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","edible fruits","culinary herb","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Lepidium |
| Botanical Name: | Lepidium sativum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or outdoor garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 4–6 weeks during active growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerate partial shade but avoid intense direct sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; move outdoors in mild weather.
Watering
every 3–5 days
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures in winter promote longevity.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from vents; maintain moderate warmth.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in medium or water.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water for cuttings.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 1–2 weeks; new growth appears in 3–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or snip stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove yellow or damaged leaves.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged leaves; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if needed; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 6–12 months or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; loosen roots; add fresh soil; water gently; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water evenly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the base, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or browning in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become leggy.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently in heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLepidium sativum is not known to be toxic to cats. It is not associated with adverse effects when ingested in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicLepidium sativum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It is not associated with adverse effects when ingested in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicLepidium sativum, commonly known as cress, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is widely consumed as a fresh herb and is not associated with significant toxic effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I grow Lepidium sativum?
A: Sow seeds directly in soil, keep moist, and harvest leaves in 2-3 weeks.
Q: Is Lepidium sativum safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Can I eat Lepidium sativum?
A: Yes, its leaves are commonly eaten raw in salads and sandwiches.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 3–5 days |
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