Watercress has a fresh, peppery taste and is perfect as a topping for sandwiches, or in salads and soups. It’s easy to grow in Auk and gives you a continuous harvest with the right care — plus, it’s full of vitamins!
In short:
Sow 30–60 seeds per pot – scatter them on the surface.
Don’t cover with coconut fiber – watercress needs light to germinate.
Sprouts will appear after 7–14 days.
Ready for harvest after 6–8 weeks.
Harvest the outer leaves first – always leave at least ⅔ of the plant.
Lifespan: Up to a year with regular trimming and care.
Sow 30–60 seeds and leave them on the surface (watercress needs light to sprout)
Watercress seeds germinate best when exposed to light and kept moist.
Here’s how to do it:
Fill the pots with coconut fiber (one pack is enough for all the pots).
Scatter the seeds evenly over the surface.
Do not cover with fiber – leave the seeds on top.
Seeds will sprout in 7–14 days at 20–24 °C.
Start harvesting after 6–8 weeks (clip leaves and stems, leave the center)
Watercress will keep producing fresh new growth if you harvest correctly:
Cut the largest outer leaves and stems – leave the center intact for regrowth.
Harvest regularly – this keeps the plant compact and healthy, and encourages new growth.
Remove any yellowing or wilted leaves to support fresh growth.
Never harvest more than ⅓ of the plant at a time.
💡 Younger leaves are milder in flavor, while older ones are more peppery.
Watercress can live for over a year with the right trimming and care
With the right temperature and regular harvesting, watercress can thrive for a long time in Auk! Eventually, the plant may start to flower, which affects both taste and leaf texture.
To avoid flowering:
Harvest and trim frequently to keep the plant in leaf production mode.
If you see signs of flowering, cut the entire stem where the flower is developing – this helps extend the plant’s life and keeps the flavor fresh.
Start in Auk, repot after 6–8 weeks (when it’s 10 °C or warmer)
Want to grow watercress outdoors? Start it in Auk and repot when the weather allows:
After 6–8 weeks, repot into larger pots or garden beds.
Nighttime temperatures should consistently be above 10 °C before planting outside.
Watercress loves moist soil and grows well in both sun and partial shade.
Fun fact 🌿
Watercress is naturally rich in vitamin C and iron. It’s been used for centuries as both food and medicine — and works just as well in modern dishes as it does on classic open sandwiches.
Good luck and enjoy growing! 💚
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