Upland Cress (Barbarea verna), also known as American Land Cress or Creasy Greens, is a fast-growing, hardy herb and leafy vegetable that thrives in cooler growing conditions. With a flavor reminiscent of watercress, this leafy green offers a peppery taste that adds a zing to salads, sandwiches, and soups. It’s a nutrient-dense plant that is easy to grow, even in early spring or fall, making it a great addition to cool-weather gardens. Known for its rapid growth and high yield, Upland Cress is perfect for gardeners looking for a quick-growing, nutritious herb to harvest throughout the growing season. Its ability to grow in a variety of soil types and its cold tolerance makes it an excellent choice for gardeners in cooler climates.

Key Features:

• Edible and Nutritious: Upland Cress is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, calcium, and folate. It is an excellent choice for a healthy, home-grown addition to your meals.
• Peppery Flavor: Known for its tangy, peppery taste, Upland Cress is commonly used in salads, sandwiches, soups, and as a garnish.
• Cold Hardy: Upland Cress can tolerate cooler temperatures, making it a fantastic choice for early spring or fall planting. It thrives in both cool and moderate climates.
• Fast-Growing: With a short growing cycle, Upland Cress can be harvested in just 4-6 weeks, providing a quick and bountiful crop for gardeners seeking fresh greens.
• Low Maintenance: This herb is easy to grow with minimal care, requiring only well-drained soil and regular watering. It’s a perfect vegetable herb for beginner gardeners.

Growing Information:

• Light: Upland Cress prefers full sun to partial shade. It does best in locations where it can receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day, but it will tolerate some shade, especially in warmer climates.
• Soil: Upland Cress prefers moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. It grows well in neutral to slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0-7.0) and can tolerate a range of soil types, as long as they drain well.
• Planting Tips:
  • Direct sow seeds outdoors as soon as the soil can be worked in early spring or during the fall for a second crop. It’s best to plant in rows or broadcast seeds in a small, well-prepared bed.
  • Gently press the seeds into the soil, but do not cover them, as they need light to germinate. Thin plants to about 6 inches apart once they are large enough.
  • Upland Cress grows quickly and can be harvested within 4-6 weeks of planting.
  • Space plants 6 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and to prevent overcrowding.
• Watering: Upland Cress likes consistently moist soil. Water regularly to keep the soil damp, especially during dry periods. However, it should not sit in waterlogged soil.
• Maintenance: Upland Cress is a low-maintenance plant. Regular harvesting encourages new growth, so be sure to snip the leaves as needed. Remove any flowers or seed pods to encourage continuous leaf production.

Benefits:

• Nutrient-Rich: Upland Cress is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. It is rich in vitamin C, which supports immune health, and contains significant amounts of vitamin A for skin and eye health.
• Quick Harvest: With a fast growing cycle, Upland Cress can be harvested within weeks, providing a quick yield for home gardeners.
• Cold-Tolerant: This herb thrives in cooler temperatures, making it ideal for spring and fall planting. It is perfect for gardeners in regions with shorter growing seasons or those looking for early or late-season crops.
• Versatile in Cooking: The peppery flavor of Upland Cress makes it a versatile addition to many dishes, including salads, soups, sandwiches, and smoothies. It also pairs well with other greens and herbs.
• Easy to Grow: Upland Cress is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It is well-suited for beginner gardeners or those looking for a hassle-free crop.
• Edible Leaves and Flowers: Both the leaves and flowers of Upland Cress are edible. The flowers add a touch of beauty to your garden while being an extra edible bonus in your kitchen.

Growing Zones:

• Upland Cress grows well in USDA Zones 3-9. It is cold-hardy, making it an excellent choice for early spring planting or for growing in cooler climates.

How to Use in the Garden:

• Cool-Season Crops: Plant Upland Cress in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. Its cold tolerance makes it ideal for cool-season vegetable and herb gardens.
• Succession Planting: Since Upland Cress grows quickly, it’s perfect for succession planting. You can sow seeds every few weeks to ensure a continuous harvest throughout the season.
• Edible Landscaping: Add Upland Cress to your edible landscape as a leafy green that can be harvested continuously. It is both functional and attractive, with its bright green, lush foliage.
• Container Gardening: Upland Cress can also be grown in containers or raised beds, making it a great option for gardeners with limited space or those looking to grow herbs on a balcony or patio.

Conclusion: Upland Cress (Barbarea verna) is a fast-growing, nutritious herb that provides delicious peppery leaves for a variety of culinary uses. With 1500 seeds in this packet, you'll have plenty of plants to enjoy its vibrant, fresh flavor in your meals. This hardy, low-maintenance herb thrives in cool temperatures and moist soils, making it a perfect addition to your early spring or fall vegetable garden. Whether you are growing it for its health benefits, its quick harvest cycle, or its culinary versatility, Upland Cress is a must-have for any herb or vegetable garden. Plant it today and start enjoying its flavorful, nutrient-rich greens in no time.