Curly Cress

Also known as pepper grass, is a fast-growing, cold-tolerant annual with a sharp, peppery bite. This easy-to-grow green thrives in cool temperatures, making it perfect for early spring and autumn harvesting. Its delicate, frilly leaves bring a refreshing tang to salads, sandwiches, and garnishes, while its seeds can be sprouted indoors for a bold, spicy crunch.

Curly Cress grows quickly from seed, maturing in just a few weeks. If left to flower, it readily self-seeds, ensuring a natural reseeding for years to come.

Where Can You Grow Curly Cress?

Curly Cress thrives in Zones 3-9, preferring full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. It is perfect for raised beds, container gardens, and indoor sprouting.

History and Historical Uses

Native to Europe and Western Asia, Curly Cress has been grown for centuries as a nutritious salad green. Historically prized for its bold flavour and high vitamin content, it has been cultivated both in gardens and as a quick, indoor-grown sprout.

Canadian Zone Information

Zones 8-9: Direct sow in late summer for an extended autumn harvest.
Zones 5-7: Sow seeds in early spring and again in late summer for continuous harvests.
Zones 3-4: Direct sow as soon as soil can be worked in spring; successive sowings extend the season.

How to Grow and Harvest Curly Cress

1. Planting: Sow seeds 3mm (1/8in) deep, spacing plants 5-10cm (2-4in) apart.
2. Watering: Keep soil evenly moist for tender, crisp leaves.
3. Harvesting:
   • Pick young leaves for the best flavour.
   • Cut plants above the base for regrowth.
   • Use seeds for indoor sprouting year-round.
4. Maintenance: Let some plants go to seed to encourage natural reseeding for future harvests.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply

1. Allow to Flower and Seed: Leave plants to bolt and produce seed pods.
2. Harvest Seeds: Once pods turn brown and dry, collect them before they disperse naturally.
3. Dry and Clean: Separate seeds from husks and allow them to fully dry before storing.
4. Store: Keep seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Properly stored seeds remain viable for up to 3 years.

Certified Organic By

Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)