How to Grow Watercress in the Kitchen

Locate a place in your kitchen for growing watercress. Setting them on a windowsill exposes them to natural sunlight. If the herbs cannot get sunlight, set up a fluorescent light shining above the tops of the plants. High output fluorescent lights must be placed 12 inches above the plants, while standard lights require 2 to 4 inches.

Select a large container that allows you to space the watercress plants 4 inches apart. Terracotta and plastic containers conserve water most effectively. If not already there, drill several holes measuring about 1/5 inch in diameter in the bottom of the container allowing excess water to drain. Place the container in a drip tray catching the runoff.

Pour a mixture of 1/2 potting mix and 1/2 organic material into the container. Press the soil firmly to pack it down. Leave 3 to 4 inches clear from the container's top. Water the soil so that it is very wet.

Create holes in the soil with a dibber that are approximately 4 inches apart. Decide if you want to grow watercress directly from seeds or stem clippings. If growing from seeds, plant them about a 1/4 deep. If transplanting watercress, select cuttings that are about 4 inches long. Remove all leaves from the stem's lower part before planting.

Watering the plants regularly keeps the soil from drying out. Fill the drip tray with water so that the roots stay wet. Watercress quickly wilts if not given plenty of water. Harvest watercress as needed for your meals. Store excess watercress leaves in the refrigerator for up to seven days.