Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
QUICK TIPS FOR GROWING SPINACH
FAMILY
NAME
Brassicaceae (mustard or cabbage family).
EDIBLE
PARTS
Leaves and stems.
LOCATION
In full sun and partial shade.
BEST SOIL
Rich soil, high in organic content.
WHEN TO
PLANT
Early spring.
HOW TO
PLANT.
Space the seeds 3 to 4 inches apart. A good environment is to
plant the cress in soil-filled pots that are placed in a tray filled
with water. If you do this, change the water every three or four
days.
HOW MUCH
TO PLANT
7 to 8 pots per person.
WEEDING
If you plant in a water tray, this is not a consideration.
WATERING
The water tray mentioned is the best option.
CARE
As long as the plants are not allowed to dry out, watercress
doesn't require much care.
FERTILIZING
Watercress in a water tray does not need fertilizer.
PESTS AND
DISEASES
Flea beetles and mustard beetles like watercress. To get rid of
them, dunk the entire pot under water and hold it there for an
hour or so.
WHEN TO
HARVEST
Cress germinates in 8 to 12 days; pick when the leaves are fully
grown. Be sure to harvest before the plants go to flower, or they
will turn bitter.
HOW TO
HARVEST
Snap the leaves off at the base of the stem.
STORAGE
Store in a clean plastic bag with a damp paper towel. However, I
strongly recommend harvesting only what you need for your
smoothie, so you'll get the freshest watercress possible.
