cress alénois - organic seeds

Cress Seeds 'Alenois'

'Alenois' cress (Lepidium sativum var. Alénois) is a fast-growing annual plant known for its small, spicy, and peppery green leaves. Originally from the Middle East, this variety of cress is popular for its mild yet sharp flavor. 'Alenois' cress is widely used in salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish. It is rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, C, and K, calcium, and iron. This variety of cress adds a fresh touch to various dishes and is easy to grow, both indoors and outdoors.

Growing Tips

• Sowing:
  Sowing time: Sow 'Alenois' cress directly in the ground or in a pot from March to October. You can scatter the seeds widely or sow them in rows with a spacing of 10 cm.
  Sowing depth: Sow the seeds shallowly and lightly cover them with soil.
  Germination: 'Alenois' cress seeds germinate very quickly, often within two to three days at a temperature of around 18°C.

• Growing Conditions:
  Light: 'Alenois' cress thrives best in a bright location but can also tolerate partial shade.
  Soil: Preferably use moist, well-drained soil for healthy growth.
  Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the germination period and in warm weather, to prevent drying out.

• Maintenance:
  Thinning: If you're consuming it as young cress, thinning is not necessary. However, if you want to harvest it as a larger salad leaf, thin the plants to 10-15 cm apart.

Harvesting

• Leaves:
  Harvest the young shoots of 'Alenois' cress when they reach a height of 4 to 6 cm. For optimal flavor and texture, harvest the leaves while they are still young, before they become bitter as they age.

Pests and Diseases

• Pests:
  This variety is generally not very susceptible to pests.

• Diseases:
  Ensure adequate air circulation to prevent fungal diseases, especially in densely sown areas.

Uses

• Culinary:
  'Alenois' cress is a versatile herb in the kitchen, perfect for adding to salads, sandwiches, soups, and as a garnish. Its spicy, peppery flavor and crisp texture add an extra layer of taste and brighten up a variety of dishes.