When to Plant Watercress in Northumberland County, PA
Watercress is a semi-aquatic plant with a peppery, tangy flavor rich in vitamins and minerals. It grows naturally along streams and can be cultivated in containers with standing water.
Northumberland County, Pennsylvania is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 17 and the first fall frost is October 26, giving you a growing season of approximately 192 days.
At an elevation of 324 feet, Northumberland County receives approximately 40.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 91°F, providing good warmth for Watercress during the growing season.
Northumberland County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.1-6.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Watercress Planting Timeline — Northumberland County, PA
Watercress Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 13 | Mar 13 – Mar 27 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 17 | Apr 17 – May 1 |
| Direct Sow | April 3 | Apr 3 – Apr 24 |
| Fall Sowing | August 17 | Aug 17 – Aug 31 |
| Harvest | May 29 | May 29 – Jul 3 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
Water
High — keep soil consistently moist
Days to Maturity
40–60 days
Soil pH
6.5 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 6a
Growing Season
192 days
Growing Tips for Northumberland County
Grow in containers with trays of water kept fresh. Provide partial shade and cool conditions. Harvest stems by cutting above water level. Replace water frequently to prevent stagnation.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Watercress in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Watercress in Northumberland County, PA?
Northumberland County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 17. Plan your Watercress planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Northumberland County, PA?
Northumberland County, Pennsylvania is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 17 and first fall frost is October 26.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Northumberland County gardeners in Zone 6a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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