Organic Garden Cress
identification
description
Organic Garden Cress ( Lepidium sativum ) – offered by Gaia, a peppery and quick to grow herb
Garden cress is a fast-growing biennial herb , prized for its peppery, spicy-tasting leaves . Native to Europe, Asia and Ethiopia , it has been cultivated since the 16th century to enhance salads, sandwiches and cooked dishes .
Easy to grow, it sprouts in a few days and can be harvested just two weeks after sowing . Its indoor cultivation all year round allows you to enjoy a continuous fresh and spicy supply , perfect for lovers of spicy flavors!
Did you know?
Garden cress is rich in vitamin C, iron and antioxidants , which made it a popular remedy for scurvy in the past. Its pungent flavour often makes it compared to arugula, although it is even quicker to grow!
Spread : Low habit and compact growth
Plant height : 10 to 25 cm
Quantity per pack : ± 500 seeds
Companion plants : Mint, dill and chives
Enemy plants : Cabbage and beans
Cultivation method
Sowing can be done directly in open ground from the beginning of spring , 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost . It can also be grown indoors all year round , in a simple pot or even on a germination tray.
Space plants 15cm apart, sowing seeds shallowly ( 5mm deep ). Keep soil moist and weed-free , and pinch the plant regularly to encourage dense, continuous growth.
Garden cress prefers a cool climate , with ideal temperatures between 12 and 15°C . In summer, it is recommended to grow it in partial shade to avoid it bolting too quickly .
Harvesting and conservation
The leaves can be harvested as soon as they reach 7 to 10 cm in height , or only 15 days after sowing . Cutting to 1 cm above the ground allows the plant to grow back quickly and ensure several successive harvests.
Garden cress is best eaten fresh , as it quickly loses its flavor once cut. It can be stored for a few days in the refrigerator , but it is best eaten immediately after picking to enjoy its full flavor.
With its rapid growth, easy cultivation and tangy taste , garden cress is a must-have herb for lovers of fresh and spicy greens!
