Watercress is a hardy perennial that absolutely loves getting its feet wet. As long as you can keep it consistently hydrated, it’s actually pretty easy to grow! Whether you have a big backyard or just a sunny windowsill, there are plenty of ways to bring this peppery green into your home garden.
Where It Grows in the Wild
In nature, you’ll usually spot watercress hugging the banks of cool streams or rivers, tucked away in the dappled shade of light forests or meadows. Unfortunately, these pristine natural habitats are becoming harder to find, which means wild watercress isn’t as common as it used to be.
Ways to Grow Your Own
The good news? You can easily start your own watercress from seed right at home. Depending on your setup, you can grow it:
- Directly in a garden pond,
- In a consistently damp garden bed,
- Or even in a simple pot.
The Perfect Spot for Your Watercress
No matter which method you choose, there are a few “must-haves” to keep your plants happy.
Keep It Soaking Wet
Watercress is a true water lover. The golden rule here is that it can never, ever dry out. Generally speaking, the more water you give it, the faster and lusher it will grow.
Find Some Shade
Ideally, watercress prefers a spot with partial shade. It can handle some sun if you’re extra diligent about watering, but it’s best to keep it out of that intense, scorching midday heat.
Growing Watercress Directly in Water
If you have a garden pond, you’re in luck—this is the lowest-maintenance way to grow it! Since the plant is sitting right in the water, it gets a constant supply of moisture and basically takes care of itself. It’s the ultimate “set it and forget it” gardening hack.
Growing in a Garden Bed
If your garden soil is naturally heavy, clay-like, or a bit swampy, you can plant watercress directly in the ground. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to be out there with the hose every single day to make sure the soil stays saturated.
Growing Watercress in Containers
No pond? No problem! You can easily grow watercress in a pot or a deep tray. This is a great option if you want fresh greens right in your kitchen.
I recommend using a plastic pot rather than terracotta, as plastic holds onto moisture much longer. Fill your container with a mix of standard potting soil and a bit of compost or sand. Pro tip: Line the bottom with a layer of gravel or broken ceramic shards to help maintain that perfect balance of drainage and constant moisture.
