The joy of cress

Watercress has come a long way since it was bought by the bunch for breakfast by labourers in the 19th century, it has been noted.

Laura Mason makes her comments in the Times, noting that the plant is in season from March to November and that it may even be available in milder winters.

She notes that varieties of the flora that are native to the UK are predominantly grown in southern Hampshire, Wiltshire and Dorset.

Ms Mason explains that watercress makes a great addition to salads, soups, sauces and can also be used as a garnish.

Online resource Garden Organic suggests that watercress can be grown under glass, but will flourish in the open air as long as the soil is kept moist.

It adds that horticultural enthusiasts should keep and eye on the crop and that regular picking is necessary once the plant is established as it can have a tendency to flower quickly.