Plant Profile
WatercressNasturtium officinale
Watercress (Nasturtium officinale) is a fast-growing perennial plant native to moist areas and water banks. It is known for its pungent, peppery flavor and has been valued for centuries as a salad green and medicinal herb. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, nutrient-rich soil. Regular harvesting encourages new growth and prevents premature bolting. Watercress is excellent for growing in beds, raised beds, or even in pots on the balcony, as long as sufficient moisture is provided. It is relatively easy to care for but can be susceptible to aphids and fungal diseases, especially with poor ventilation or waterlogging. Harvesting is continuous from spring to autumn.
Quick profile
Key data
Suitable growing locations:
Good neighbors
RadishLettuceSpinachCarrots
Avoid
CabbageBroccoliCauliflower
Indoor & direct sowing
Watercress: Sowing and germination
Sow in a greenhouse or on a windowsill for an early harvest.
Direct sow outdoors once the risk of frost has passed.
Planting & site
Watercress: Planting and spacing
Plant out pre-grown seedlings into the open ground or containers.
Site & practical notes
Watercress loves moist feet. A location near a pond or a well-watered pot is ideal. Regular harvesting keeps the plant bushy and prevents it from bolting. Ensure clean water if harvesting or growing watercress from natural sources to avoid contamination.
Temperature & frost
Watercress: Temperature and site
Water & nutrients
Watercress: Water, nutrients and care
Container & growth
Watercress: Container, support and growth
Year plan
Watercress Calendar
From spring to autumn, you can continuously harvest fresh watercress.
Recurring tasks
Relevant now
June
- No additional single task
Next up
July
- No additional single task
Monthly tasks
Single tasks from monthly data; repeated seasonal windows are shown in the overview above.
January
Quiet month
February
No additional single task
March
No additional single task
April
Direct sowing
- Sow outdoorsFrostfrei: Direct sow once soil has warmed.
Planting
- PlantingFrostfrei: Set pre-grown plants outdoors.
May
No additional single task
June
No additional single task
August
Direct sowing
- Sow outdoorsLate sowing for autumn harvest.
September
Direct sowing
- Sow outdoorsLast sowing for autumn harvest.
October
Harvest
- HarvestHarvest regularly to encourage growth.
November
Quiet month
December
Quiet month
Flowering & pollination
Watercress Flowering & pollination
Self-fertility
self-fertile
Pollinator needed
no
Overview
Watercress is self-pollinating, but cross-pollination by insects is also possible.
Notes
Although insects like bees and flies can contribute to pollination, it is not essential for fruit set.
Companion guide
Watercress Companion guide
Good neighbors
RadishLettuceSpinachCarrots
Avoid
CabbageBroccoliCauliflower
Use & storage
Watercress Use & storage
Harvest leaves and young shoots. Regular harvesting encourages new growth.
Storage
Fresh vegetable
Storage life
1-3 days in the refrigerator
Flavor
Pungent, peppery, slightly spicy.
Harvest
Harvest leaves and young shoots. Regular harvesting encourages new growth.
Processing
After harvest
Wash and cool harvested parts immediately to preserve freshness. Do not store for too long.
Edibility & safety
Watercress Edibility & safety
For people
In brief: which parts are edible, which parts remain risky, and whether raw consumption makes sense.
Safety notes
Non-toxic. However, contains glucosinolates which can cause gastrointestinal upset if consumed in excessive amounts. Caution for individuals with thyroid conditions due to iodine content.
Animal safety
For many animals, this plant is generally low-risk: 12 animal types are rated suitable or mostly suitable. Quantity, plant part, and individual tolerance still matter.
Each row shows which parts are more suitable and which parts are critical.
Companion animals
DogLeaves, Young shoots
No risk parts listed
Leaves, Young shoots
No risk parts listed
Overconsumption, Thyroid conditions (due to iodine content)
Vomiting, Gastrointestinal upset
observe
Watercress is considered non-toxic to dogs. However, like any plant, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. It contains glucosinolates which can be irritating in large quantities. Caution is advised for dogs with thyroid conditions due to its natural iodine content.
Open animal page
CatNo suitable parts listed
No risk parts listed
No suitable parts listed
No risk parts listed
RabbitLeaves, Young shoots
Roots, Flower stalks (if plant bolts)
Leaves, Young shoots
Roots, Flower stalks (if plant bolts)
Overconsumption, Contamination from unsafe water sources (e.g., parasites)
Gastrointestinal upset (with excessive consumption)
contact a vet if symptoms appear
Watercress contains glucosinolates, which can cause gastrointestinal upset if consumed in excessive amounts. The plant should only be offered in moderation as a supplemental feed. Roots and bolting flower stalks are not recommended due to bitterness or texture. Special caution is advised regarding the origin of watercress, as it can transmit parasites from contaminated water sources.
Open animal page
Guinea pigLeaves, Young shoots
Roots, Flower stalks (can be bitter)
Leaves, Young shoots
Roots, Flower stalks (can be bitter)
Overconsumption, Sensitive digestion, Thyroid conditions (due to iodine content)
Gastrointestinal upset (e.g., bloating, diarrhea) with excessive consumption
observe
Watercress is generally safe for guinea pigs in moderation and can be a good source of Vitamin C. Excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal upset due to glucosinolates. Roots and woody flower stalks should be avoided.
Open animal page
HamsterLeaves, Young shoots
Roots, Flower stalks (if plant bolts)
Leaves, Young shoots
Roots, Flower stalks (if plant bolts)
Overconsumption, Contamination from unsafe water sources (e.g., parasites)
Gastrointestinal upset (with excessive consumption)
contact a vet if symptoms appear
No direct species-specific source was found for hamsters. This is a cautious inference from the rabbits profile and the known plant-part risks.
Open animal page
BudgieNo suitable parts listed
No risk parts listed
No suitable parts listed
No risk parts listed
Farm animals
HorseLeaves, Young shoots
No risk parts listed
Leaves, Young shoots
No risk parts listed
Excessive consumption, Contamination with parasites from unsafe water
Gastrointestinal upset (with excessive consumption)
observe
However, excessive consumption of the contained glucosinolates may cause gastrointestinal upset. Only clean watercress from safe sources should be fed to avoid parasite contamination.
Open animal page
ChickenLeaves, Young shoots
All plant parts in excessive amounts, Roots, Flower stalks (if plant bolts)
Leaves, Young shoots
All plant parts in excessive amounts, Roots, Flower stalks (if plant bolts)
Overconsumption, especially raw, Pre-existing thyroid conditions
Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea), Potential thyroid issues with chronic excessive intake
contact a vet if symptoms appear
Watercress is suitable for chickens in moderation. It contains glucosinolates and iodine, which can cause gastrointestinal upset and potentially thyroid issues if consumed in excessive amounts. A varied diet is important.
Open animal page
DuckLeaves, Young shoots
No risk parts listed
Leaves, Young shoots
No risk parts listed
Overconsumption, Contaminated water (plants from unsafe sources)
Gastrointestinal upset (with excessive consumption)
observe
No direct species-specific source was found for ducks. This is a cautious inference from the geese profile and the known plant-part risks.
Open animal page
GooseLeaves, Young shoots
No risk parts listed
Leaves, Young shoots
No risk parts listed
Overconsumption, Contaminated water (plants from unsafe sources)
Gastrointestinal upset (with excessive consumption)
observe
Watercress is generally considered non-toxic. However, it contains glucosinolates which can cause gastrointestinal upset if consumed in excessive amounts. Geese naturally forage on this plant. It is recommended to offer it only in moderation and ensure the plants come from clean water sources to avoid parasites or contaminants.
Open animal page
SheepLeaves, Young shoots
No risk parts listed
Leaves, Young shoots
No risk parts listed
Excessive consumption, Animals with pre-existing thyroid conditions
Gastrointestinal upset (e.g., diarrhea, bloating), Potential thyroid dysfunction with very high, long-term consumption
contact a vet if symptoms appear
Watercress contains glucosinolates which can cause gastrointestinal upset if consumed in excessive amounts. In very large quantities and with long-term intake, there is a low risk of thyroid dysfunction. Likely safe for sheep in moderate amounts as part of a varied pasture or diet.
Open animal page
GoatLeaves, Young shoots
No risk parts listed
Leaves, Young shoots
No risk parts listed
Excessive consumption, Thyroid conditions (due to iodine content)
Gastrointestinal upset with excessive consumption
observe
Watercress is generally safe for goats when consumed in moderation. Excessive intake may cause gastrointestinal upset due to glucosinolates. Iodine content may be relevant for goats with thyroid conditions.
Open animal page
CattleLeaves, Young shoots
No risk parts listed
Leaves, Young shoots
No risk parts listed
Excessive consumption, Thyroid conditions (due to iodine content)
Gastrointestinal upset with excessive consumption
observe
Watercress is generally safe for cattle and valued as feed. However, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to glucosinolates. The iodine content may be relevant for animals with thyroid conditions.
Open animal page
PigLeaves, Young shoots
No risk parts listed
Leaves, Young shoots
No risk parts listed
Excessive consumption, Iodine content (for individuals with thyroid conditions)
Gastrointestinal upset with excessive consumption
observe
Watercress is generally considered safe for pigs. It is rich in vitamins and minerals. However, excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal upset due to glucosinolates. The iodine content may be relevant for animals with thyroid conditions.
Open animal pageThese guidelines are for general information only and do not replace veterinary diagnosis. If critical plant parts were ingested or the animal shows unusual behaviour or symptoms, seek veterinary advice.
Max risk
unknown
Highest status
not established
Urgency
contact a vet if symptoms appear
Saving seed
Watercress Saving seed
Seed viability
2 - 3 years
Storage
Store dry, cool, and dark. Viability approx. 2-3 years.
Practical tips
Watercress Practical tips
Common beginner mistakes
Success pattern
Consistent moisture, regular harvesting, and a sunny to partially shaded location are key to success.
High-impact tips
Grower observations
Plant Profile
Additional plant images
Health
Pests, Diseases
Pests
Aphids
Small, sap-sucking insects that colonize young shoots and leaves, causing distortion and yellowing.
Flea Beetles
Small beetles that chew characteristic small holes in the leaves. They jump when disturbed.
Diseases
Downy mildew
Fungal disease appearing as yellowish spots on the upper leaf surface and a grey to purplish spore growth on the underside. Occurs in humid conditions.
Root Rot
Caused by various fungi and bacteria, occurring in waterlogged and poorly drained conditions. Leads to wilting and plant death.
Deficiencies
Iron Deficiency
Chlorosis of younger leaves, where leaf veins remain green while the tissue between them turns yellow. Often occurs with high pH or waterlogging.
Plant health
Diagnosis help
Watercress Diagnosis help
Pest groups
Disease groups
Prevention
Diagnosis
Observe specific symptoms like leaf holes, spots, or yellowing. Site conditions (moisture, pH) are often key to diagnosis.
Cultural prevention
Monitoring
First response
Diagnostic rules
Small, round holes in leaves
Possible causes: Flea beetles
- Check for small jumping beetles
- Check soil moisture
Yellowing of young leaves with green veins
Possible causes: Iron deficiency
- Measure soil pH
- Check drainage
Wilting despite moist soil
Possible causes: Root rot
- Inspect roots (mushy/rotten)
- Improve drainage
FAQ
Where does watercress grow best?
Watercress prefers sunny to partially shaded locations with consistently moist to wet soil. It naturally grows in streams, ditches, and on banks, but can also be grown well in moist beds, raised beds, or large pots, as long as the soil never dries out.
How often do I need to water watercress?
Watercress requires a lot of water. The soil should be kept consistently moist. On hot days, daily watering may be necessary, especially if grown in a pot or a sunny bed. However, waterlogging should be avoided to prevent root rot.
Can I grow watercress on the balcony?
Yes, watercress is very suitable for balcony cultivation. Use a deep pot or window box and ensure the soil remains consistently moist. A location in partial shade is often beneficial to prevent rapid drying out.
When and how do I harvest watercress?
You can harvest watercress continuously from spring to autumn. Cut the young leaves and shoot tips, about 5-10 cm above the ground. Regular harvesting encourages bushier growth and prevents the plant from flowering (bolting).
What pests affect watercress?
Common pests include aphids, which settle on young shoots, and flea beetles, which eat small holes in the leaves. Good plant care and encouraging beneficial insects help with prevention.
Is Watercress safe for Dog?
Watercress is classified as moderation only for Dog. Risk: unknown. Urgency: observe. Watercress is considered non-toxic to dogs. However, like any plant, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. It contains glucosinolates which can be irritating in large quantities. Caution is advised for dogs with thyroid conditions due to its natural iodine content.
Is Watercress safe for Cat?
Watercress is classified as not established for Cat. Risk: unknown. Urgency: unknown. No reliable species-specific assessment is available.
Is Watercress safe for Rabbit?
Watercress is classified as moderation only for Rabbit. Risk: unknown. Urgency: contact a vet if symptoms appear. Watercress contains glucosinolates, which can cause gastrointestinal upset if consumed in excessive amounts. The plant should only be offered in moderation as a supplemental feed. Roots and bolting flower stalks are not recommended due to bitterness or texture. Special caution is advised regarding the origin of watercress, as it can transmit parasites from contaminated water sources.
Is Watercress safe for Guinea pig?
Watercress is classified as moderation only for Guinea pig. Risk: unknown. Urgency: observe. Watercress is generally safe for guinea pigs in moderation and can be a good source of Vitamin C. Excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal upset due to glucosinolates. Roots and woody flower stalks should be avoided.
Guides
Related guides
Guide
Rabbits in the Garden: Herbs and Vegetables
Learn how to choose suitable herbs and vegetables for rabbits, grow feeding plants, and plan a rabbit-friendly garden.
Guide
Slugs in Vegetable Beds: Protecting Vulnerable Plants
Learn how to protect vegetables from slugs, recognize feeding damage early, and plan beds to reduce slug pressure.
Guide
Chickens in the Garden: Safe Plants and Zones
Learn how to design a chicken-friendly garden with suitable plants, protected beds, and well-planned activity areas.
Guide
Dogs in the Garden: Windfall Fruit and Risks
Keep your garden dog-safe by managing windfall fruit, seeds, stored crops, and potentially problematic plant parts.
Internal links
Related plants
Radish
Shares the Brassicaceae family; radishes loosen the soil and can deter pests.
Belongs to the same family (Brassicaceae) and benefits from similar growing conditions.
Arugula
Shares similar cultivation needs and is often used together in salads.
Similar pungent flavor and use in salads.
Lettuce
Both are leafy greens that benefit from moist conditions and complement each other well.
Spinach
Similar needs for moisture and nutrients.
Also used as a leafy green, raw or cooked.
Mint
Mint also prefers moist locations and can be well combined with watercress in damp beds or near water.
Broccoli
Both belong to the Brassicaceae family.
Cabbage
Both belong to the Brassicaceae family.
Garden cress
Similar pungent taste and use as a salad green, but different botanical family and growth habit.
Sources
Public sources
- Wikidata entity
Wikidata · 2026-05-12
- GBIF species match
GBIF · 2026-05-12
- Deutschsprachige Wikipedia: Echte Brunnenkresse
Wikipedia · 2026-05-12
- English Wikipedia: Watercress
Wikipedia · 2026-05-12
- Trefle API - Nasturtium officinale
Trefle · 2026-05-12