How to Grow Watercress in a Jar

Watercress has been eaten since ancient times, and is still appreciated for its peppery flavor and high vitamin and mineral content. Known botanically as Nasturtium officinale, watercress is in the same family as the mustard plant. It grows naturally near or in moving water, but can be grown in a jar as long as it is kept wet. Leaves can be picked as sprouts or allowed to grow larger and used in salads, soups, stuffing or a flavorful enhancer to any dish that would benefit from a peppery taste.

Watercress
Plastic pot
Sphagnum moss
Compost
Water
Pencil
Jar
Scissor or knife

Instructions

- 1
  Purchase a bunch of watercress from your local grocery store or farmer's market. Select a bunch that still has its roots attached.
- 2
  Fill a 4- to 6-inch plastic flower pot with a mixture of half compost and half sphagnum moss. Leave 1 inch of space between the top of the planting mix and the lip of the pot. Press the soil down with your fingers, and saturate with water until it drains from the bottom of the pot.
- 3
  Use a pencil to make a hole in the potting mix deep and wide enough to insert the stem of the watercress without crushing or breaking the roots. Plant the stem and press the soil around it. Water it again.
- 4
  Find a jar that has a large enough mouth to hold the pot of watercress suspended by the pot's lip. Fill jar with water so that at least half of the pot of watercress is submerged.
- 5
  Change the water daily so it doesn't become stagnant. Keep your watercress in a sunny location near a window.
- 6
  Cut leaves for use as needed, leaving the roots unharmed. Once the plant flowers, the leaves develop a bitter flavor. Discard the watercress, and start with a new plant if desired.

How to Kill Bugs on Potted Herbs

About Mexican Mint Marigold Plants

Herb Basics