How to Grow Water Chestnut

Updated June 2026

A warm-season root for the home garden across the warmer US.

Water Chestnut is a rewarding warm-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Plant Water Chestnut in spring once the soil has warmed and all frost has passed. In the warmest regions a second crop is possible in late summer. See your region on the water chestnut page for exact timing.

Varieties

Chinese Water Chestnut, Crisp aquatic corm (specialty growers)

How to grow it

Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
Spacing: about 12 in between plants.
Sowing: sow about 2 in deep.
Water: roughly 6.6 gal per plant every day in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Few. In humid regions, Few can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Water Chestnut is usually ready to harvest in about 6 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant water chestnut where you garden.

See what to plant this month

Pick your region for a month-by-month calendar tuned to your climate.

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