Cress – Curled

Cres - Curled

• Growing Temp 45°F – 75°F

• Days to Maturity 15-20 days

Ease of Cultivation and Culinary Use: Curled cress is a fast-growing, easy-to-grow herb known for its finely cut, curly leaves and peppery flavor. Suitable for both beginner and seasoned gardeners, it can be grown indoors or outdoors with minimal care. The leaves are often used fresh in salads, sandwiches, and as garnishes, adding a sharp, spicy bite that complements other greens and vegetables.

Direct Sowing: For direct sowing, plant cress seeds outdoors in early spring or fall when temperatures are cooler. Sow seeds about ¼ inch deep and space them 1 inch apart in rows 6 inches apart. Germination usually occurs within 2–5 days. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, as cress prefers cool, moist conditions and can bolt quickly in warm weather.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: To get a head start, sow cress seeds indoors 2–3 weeks before the last frost. Use seedling trays filled with quality potting mix, lightly scattering the seeds over the soil surface. Gently press them into the soil and mist to keep moist. Maintain a temperature around 60°F. Once the seedlings have a few leaves and the danger of frost has passed, transplant them outdoors, spacing about 1 inch apart for a dense crop.

Harvesting: To determine when Curled cress is ready for harvest, look for leaves that are about 2–3 inches long, typically within 15-20 days. Snip leaves as needed from the outer edges, allowing the plant’s center to continue producing. Harvest regularly to maintain flavor, as cress can become bitter and tougher if allowed to mature too long.