Watercress (Nasturtium officinale)

Watercress is a perennial aquatic or semi-aquatic plant in the mustard family, known for its peppery flavor and high nutritional value. It grows naturally in running water and is often utilized in salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish.

Common and Alternative Names

Common Name: Watercress
Latin Name: Nasturtium officinale
Alternative Names: Cress, Nasturtium, or Indian Cress

Varieties

Curly Leaf Watercress (Nasturtium officinale var. crispum)
Upland Cress (Barbarea verna)
Watercress (Nasturtium officinale)

Identification

Leaf shape: Compound, round to oval, with toothed edges
Plant height: 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm)
Width: 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm)
Weight: Approximately 100 to 250 grams when fully grown

Toxic Look-Alikes

Poison Hemlock (Conium maculatum)
Water Hemlock (Cicuta spp.)

Parts and Uses

Part	Uses
Leaves	Salads, sandwiches, garnishes, nutritional supplements
Stems	Used in cooking and salads

Nutritional Information (per 100g)

Nutrient	Value
Calories	11 kcal
Protein	2.3 g
Carbohydrates	1.3 g
Fiber	0.5 g
Vitamin C	43 mg

Performance in Hydroponics

Field	Range	Optimal Value
EC (Electrical Conductivity)	1.5-2.5 mS/cm	2.0 mS/cm
pH	6.0-7.0	6.5
TDS (Total Dissolved Solids)	1000-2000 ppm	1500 ppm
Temperature	18-22°C	20°C
Sunlight Required	Partial to full sunlight	Full sunlight
Hours under Grow Light	8-12 hours	10 hours
Wattage of Grow Lights	200-400 watts	300 watts
Seasons to Plant	Spring and Fall	Spring
Seasons it will Grow	Year-round in optimal conditions	Year-round

Compatibility with Hydroponic Systems

System Type	Compatibility
NFT (Nutrient Film Technique)	High
DWC (Deep Water Culture)	Compatible
Drip System	Compatible

Propagation Methods

Cuttings: Cut stems just below a node, place them in water until roots develop.
Seeds: Sow seeds in a growing medium; water them gently. Seeds should be removed when they are mature, approximately 70-80 days after planting.
Other Methods: May be propagated through divisions of the root system.

Stages of Growth and Harvest

From propagation through cuttings, it takes approximately 14-21 days until new roots develop and about 30-40 days for the plant to reach maturity and be ready for harvest. A single seed can yield about 100-200 grams of watercress.