How to Grow Cress

You can grow cress in a small bowl, a seed tray, outdoors and for a fun project for children, you can even grow it in an egg shell. Some of the popular varieties of cress include ‘mustard cress’ and ‘extra curled’ cress.

When to Plant Cress

The best part about growing cress indoors is that you can plant it throughout the year and get regular harvests. Those planning to grow cress outdoors can do so from early spring until early autumn, however the plants won’t survive in frost or cold temperatures.

Tips for Growing Cress 

• Cress can be grown in soil, which provides it with more nutrients, and it will last longer. To prepare the soil, remove the weeds and add mulch. Water the area and let it drain before digging 2 cm deep holes. Scatter the cress seeds and lightly cover with soil or compost.
• You can germinate the cress seeds on kitchen roll, tissue paper or cotton wool. Just add a little water to the soil or tissue, and you will have seedlings in a matter of days or even hours! Cover the seeds in clingfilm or a clear lid to help the germination process along. Water them regularly.
• Cress can grow indoors all year-round on a light windowsill. You can use a shallow seed tray and moist soil, with little to no maintenance. 
• If you choose to grow it outdoors, it will require a cool and shady position. Growing Cress in full sun can make the Cress taste bitter. Growing Cress is a nice, quick crop to grow and can be grown amongst others. You can stagger your sowing to extend your harvest.
• Cress is a good companion plant and works well planted with carrots and radishes if you are fighting for space.