Growing Watercress in Zone 11b
Zone 11b has a year-round growing season. Watercress can be planted almost any time with proper planning. Last frost: Jan 15. First frost: Dec 31.
Planting Calendar
Season: Jan 15 – Dec 31 (350 days) · Succession: plant every 2 weeks (up to 21x)
When to Plant Watercress in Zone 11b
Start Seeds Indoors: Dec 4
Start Watercress seeds indoors around Dec 4 (6 weeks before last frost). Optimal germination temperature: 60°F. Germinates in 7–14 days.
Transplant Outdoors: Jan 1
Transplant Watercress seedlings outdoors after Jan 1. Wait until soil temperature reaches 45°F. Space plants at 6/sqft. Harden off plants for a week before moving outside.
Harvest: Feb 5
First harvest approximately Feb 5 (~35 days from transplant). Continue harvesting until first frost (Dec 31). Watercress can overwinter in mild climates for continued harvest.
Fall Planting: Nov 19
For a fall harvest, plant Watercress around Nov 19 (6 weeks before first frost).
Watercress in Other Zones
1a 1b 2a 2b 3a 3b 4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b 9a 9b 10a 10b 11a 11b 12a 12b 13a 13bFrequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Watercress in Zone 11b?
Start Watercress seeds indoors around Dec 4. Transplant outdoors after Jan 1. Expect first harvest around Feb 5.
What is the last frost date for Zone 11b?
The average last spring frost date for Zone 11b is Jan 15. The first fall frost averages Dec 31, giving a 350-day growing season.
Can I grow Watercress in Zone 11b?
Yes. Watercress needs 50 days to harvest. Zone 11b has a 350-day growing season, which is sufficient. You can plant up to 21 successions.
What is the best month to plant Watercress in Zone 11b?
The best time to start Watercress in Zone 11b is Dec. Begin seeds indoors around Dec 4, then transplant outdoors after the last frost date of Jan 15.
How long does Watercress take to harvest?
Watercress takes approximately 50 days from planting to harvest. In Zone 11b, expect your first harvest around Feb 5.
Plan Your Watercress Garden
Track Watercress from seed to harvest with personalized frost dates, watering recommendations, and companion planting visualization.
Start Free Watercress Growing Guide