Cress is a more challenging plant to grow in Colorado's intense sun. It's ready to harvest in as little as 14 days after spring planting. Part day shade is best particularly when weather turns warm. Both curly cress, also known as peppergrass, and broadleaf cress thrive in ordinary garden soil and provide for repeat harvests before going to seed. For fiery greens that are a culinary delight, grow Japanese mustards.
Leaves are ready for harvest when four inches long, usually four to six weeks after sowing.
They can withstand some summer heat if planted in partial shade. Do go slow here as these are considered some of the spiciest of greens. Better known for its sunset hued flowers, both flowers and leaves are edible. Nasturtiums grow like crazy in hot weather and the young leaves provide the best peppery bite. Only their flowers are edible and they add wonderful color to salads.