Hairy bittercress
Nasturtium microphyllum · Brassicaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant hairy bittercress: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, small rounded leaves
- Flowering
- Spring to autumn, small white flowers
- Adult size
- 15 to 30 cm tall
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Frost-sensitive, semi-hardy
- Origin
- Western and central Europe
- Soil type
- Moist, rich in organic matter
- Exposure
- Shade to partial shade, humid environments
Care
Regular watering and moisture maintenance
Watercress with small leaves requires constantly moist but well-drained soil. Water regularly to maintain this moisture, especially during hot or dry periods. Avoid splashing the foliage and favour watering at the base. This plant also tolerates aquatic or semi-aquatic environments, where it adapts perfectly.
Shaded and cool locations
Plant small-leaved watercress in shade or partial shade, away from direct intense sunlight. This plant appreciates cool and humid areas, particularly near a fountain or small pond. In very hot climates, favour afternoon shade to prevent drying out.
Rich and constantly moist soil
Prepare a substrate rich in organic matter, with quality peat or potting soil. Watercress tolerates naturally humid alluvial soils very well. An application of mature compost in spring promotes vitality and foliage growth.
Regular pinching and cleanup
Regularly pinch the tips to encourage dense and bushy branching. Remove yellowed or damaged leaves as soon as they appear. Light spring cleaning revitalizes the plant and prepares for a good growing season.
Moderate applications during the season
Apply a balanced diluted fertilizer monthly from spring to autumn, without excess. Rich compost mulch in spring generally completes nutritional needs. Avoid over-fertilization which would promote soft and fragile foliage.
Monitor for powdery mildew and rot
Watercress dreads stagnant excess moisture which promotes root rot or powdery mildew. Ensure good drainage despite the need for constant moisture. Regularly aerate the foliage and clean up debris to prevent fungal issues.
Did you know?
Small-leaved watercress has been a symbol of strength and vitality in northern Europe since antiquity. This humble little plant, rich in vitamin C and minerals, grows naturally along cool shaded watercourses, and remains an essential feature in water gardens and traditional humid vegetable patches.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.