Watercress
rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum
Also known as: ["Nasturtium aquaticum","Nasturtium officinale"]
Overview
A perennial aquatic herb with pungent, edible leaves and stems, often found in fresh, running water.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","culinary herb","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Rorippa |
| Botanical Name: | Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: Pond margins, bog gardens, or aquatic containers
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–10"}
- Misting: Not required
- Drainage: Moderate to slow drainage; prefers consistently moist soil.
- Soil Type: Moist, loamy soil with organic matter; aquatic mix for water gardens.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on tidiness rather than shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight); adjust based on water conditions and temperature.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; avoid intense midday sun to prevent scorching; place in partial shade during peak heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist to submerged
Maintain high soil moisture; avoid letting soil dry out; ensure waterlogging for aquatic varieties.
Soil
Rich, loamy, water-retentive soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Keep soil consistently moist; avoid dry periods; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (15–25°C); tolerates mild frost but prefers warmer conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent humidity.
Fertilizing
Every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; use organic options for aquatic growth; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (20–22°C).
Medium
Sphagnum moss or water for stem cuttings; well-draining soil for seeds.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 1–2 weeks for cuttings; seeds germinate in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, container, water or rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent plants; change water every few days if using water propagation; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead leaves at the base; pinch back stems for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or yellowing leaves to maintain health.
Tools
Sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 cm in diameter.
Method
Use fresh aquatic or moist soil mix; ensure good drainage; trim roots if crowded.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the container; beneficial for aquatic growth.
Checklist
Water plant before repotting; use clean pot; add fresh soil; gently tease roots.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water early morning; ensure water reaches roots; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly to saturate soil; apply directly to soil surface; ensure water reaches root zone; allow excess to drain if in a pot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Keep soil consistently moist; water daily in hot weather, reduce frequency in cooler months; ensure waterlogged conditions for aquatic growth.
Soil Improvement
Add compost for fertility; use peat moss for moisture retention; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting (heat stress), stunted growth (extreme temperatures).
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, may lead to root damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced vigor, and potential flower/seed failure.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for ratios; water before fertilizing; apply evenly to soil.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicWatercress is not considered toxic to cats. It can be offered to cats in small amounts as a treat, but it should not replace their primary diet.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicWatercress is not considered toxic to dogs. It can be included in a dog's diet in moderation as a source of vitamins and minerals.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicRorippa nasturtium-aquaticum, commonly known as watercress, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is widely consumed as a leafy green vegetable and is known for its peppery flavor and nutritional benefits.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is watercress safe for human consumption?
A: Yes, watercress is non-toxic and commonly consumed as a leafy green or in salads.
Q: How should watercress be grown?
A: It thrives in cool, running water or consistently moist soil, requiring partial to full shade.
Q: Does watercress have any medicinal properties?
A: Historically, watercress has been used for its diuretic and antimicrobial properties, though modern use is primarily culinary.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | Keep soil consistently moist t |
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