Description
50 Seeds per pack
Annual – Garden Cress (A.K.A. Common Garden Cress and Peppergrass)
Days to Maturity: 40–50 Days
Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Botanical Name: (Lepidium sativum)
Believed to have originated in Persia, garden cress spread across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia before being introduced to the U.S. from China. Long prized for its peppery flavor, fast growth, and medicinal properties, it remains a popular choice in the herb garden.
Thriving in cool conditions between 50–68°F but tolerating 41–77°F, garden cress grows quickly to 24 inches tall. It produces tender, light green leaves that are best harvested at 1–2 inches long. As it matures, clusters of tiny white or pale pink flowers, typically less than 1 inch across, bloom atop the stems, followed by 1/4–1/2 inch oblong pods containing reddish-brown to light brown seeds. Both the edible flowers and seeds are used fresh, in teas, or tinctures.
Garden cress offers a sharp, peppery bite, stronger than watercress and with a mustardy intensity similar to horseradish. It pairs well with creamy foods, adds zest to salads, soups, and egg dishes, and is commonly used in potato and carrot soup.
Although best enjoyed fresh, harvested leaves store several days refrigerated; seeds can be dried and kept for culinary or planting use.
Rich in protein, iron, and magnesium, garden cress supports hair growth, digestion, and immune health. Pastes made from its seeds are used to enhance hair shine, improve texture, and promote scalp health. Chewing the seeds can soothe coughs and sore throats, while a simple paste of the seeds and honey is an effective remedy for sunburn, dry skin, and minor skin irritations.
Packed with protein, iron, magnesium, and anti-inflammatory compounds, garden cress is a valuable and nourishing addition to any garden.
Medical Disclaimer:
Garden cress has long been used in traditional remedies, but we do not make any medical claims regarding its use. This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using herbs medicinally.
Planting Instructions for Garden Cress Seeds
When to Plant:
Sow garden cress seeds in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked and daytime temperatures remain above 60°F (16°C). Since cress matures quickly—often ready to harvest in just 15–20 days—successive sowings can be made every two weeks until daytime temperatures consistently exceed 75°F (24°C). A second sowing window opens in late summer to early fall once cooler weather returns. In mild regions or indoors, garden cress may be grown year-round.
Where to Plant:
Choose a location with full sun to partial shade. Cress prefers cooler conditions and tends to become bitter in hot weather. Soil should be moist, rich in organic matter, and well-drained. It also grows well in containers or on windowsills.
How to Plant:
Broadcast seeds over prepared soil or sow in rows ¼″ (6 mm) deep, spaced 3–4″ (7.5–10 cm) apart. Because light aids germination, avoid covering seeds too deeply. Keep the soil evenly moist; seeds typically sprout within 2–4 days. Once seedlings are 1–2″ tall, thin them to stand 6–8″ (15–20 cm) apart. Maintain consistent moisture throughout the growing period, especially during warm or dry spells.
How to Harvest:
Begin harvesting when leaves reach 2–4″ (5–10 cm) tall—usually 2–3 weeks after sowing. Snip outer leaves or cut entire plants to ¼″ above the soil to allow for regrowth. For a continuous harvest, sow new batches every 10–14 days. Freshly cut cress can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
How to Save Seeds:
Garden cress will readily self-seed if flowers are left to mature. After flowering, the plant forms small, curved seedpods that shatter easily when dry, making them excellent for natural reseeding but trickier to collect. Begin checking for seedpods shortly after flowering ends. To harvest, gently roll mature pods between your fingers to release the seeds, and collect them in a shallow container. Store seeds in a cool, dry place. We offer seed-saving envelopes as a convenient way to keep your collection organized and neatly labeled.
FAQ:
What is the historical or notable background of Garden Cress?
Garden cress is believed to have originated in Persia, later spreading across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia before being introduced to the U.S. from China, long valued for its peppery flavor and medicinal benefits.
How would you describe the flavor of Garden Cress?
Garden cress offers a sharp, peppery bite, stronger than watercress, with a mustardy intensity reminiscent of horseradish.
What does Garden Cress look like, and what are its growing habits?
Garden cress grows quickly to about 24 inches tall, featuring tender light green leaves, small clusters of white or pale pink flowers, and oblong seed pods containing reddish-brown to light brown seeds.
4. When and how should I harvest Garden Cress?
Garden cress is typically ready for harvesting just 10–12 days after sowing when the plants reach about 1.5 to 2 inches tall. For best flavor, snip the entire plant at the base using clean scissors or shears while the leaves are still young and tender. Harvest early to avoid the leaves becoming tough and bitter.
When is the best time to plant Garden Cress?
Plant garden cress seeds in spring, before the last frost date, as it thrives in cool weather. Since it grows quickly—ready for harvest in 15–20 days—you can continue sowing successive plantings until daytime temperatures consistently exceed 75°F. Begin sowing again in late summer into fall as temperatures cool.
What are the common culinary uses for Garden Cress?
Garden cress is versatile in the kitchen, frequently added to salads, egg dishes, soups like potato and carrot soup, and paired with creamy foods to balance its peppery punch.
What’s the best way to store Garden Cress after harvest?
Freshly harvested garden cress leaves store best in the refrigerator for several days, while seeds can be dried for long-term culinary or planting use.
What nutrients does Garden Cress provide?
Garden cress is nutrient-rich, packed with protein, iron, magnesium, and anti-inflammatory compounds, supporting hair growth, digestion, and immune health.
Does Garden Cress have any notable medicinal benefits?
Yes, garden cress seeds are used to create pastes that promote hair shine, soothe coughs and sore throats, and serve as remedies for sunburn, dry skin, and minor skin irritations.
Patricia Q. (verified owner) –
Awesome seed and seed company
Hazel Hardisty (verified owner) –
Excellent!