We have been pleasantly surprised by the interest our customers have shown in Watercress, which we began to produce last year. Rocky Park Farm has been growing it in one of our greenhouses and it is thriving! We can harvest the microgreen every three weeks, and it will be grown year-round.
Watercress is a nutrient-dense microgreen, native to Europe, but it can now be found growing wild along slow-moving waterways in North America. Watercress appears to have been one of the earliest cultivated leaf vegetables — the ancient Greeks and Romans often used it as an inexpensive alternative to black pepper, which had to be imported from India.
Watercress may be most well-known as a type of finger sandwich served at high tea in England. But trust this little green packs a ton of good-for-you vitamins and minerals; in fact, Watercress is known for being a good source of calcium, vitamins A, C, and E, as well as possessing qualities that aid with sleep. Early herbalists were well familiar with watercress and noted its medicinal qualities. (Source: Westcoast Seeds)
It is best kept fresh after harvest (and purchase) by keeping the roots/stems damp, or the refrigerator, but only for a couple of days. You can toss Watercress (including the stems) in a salad or soups, or enjoy it on sandwiches. It pairs well with fish and seafood. It can also be juiced (and the juice can be used topically for its healing properties).
Rocky Park Farm will harvest and have Watercress available at the farm stand as it becomes available, so be certain to inquire within if interested.
