Upland Cress (Barbarea verna), also known as American Land Cress or Creasy Greens, is a cool-season leafy green prized for its sharp, peppery flavor and fast growth. This non-GMO seed variety thrives in early spring and fall conditions, producing nutrient-rich leaves that resemble watercress but grow easily in standard garden soil. Ideal for home gardeners seeking a dependable, cold-tolerant leafy green, Upland Cress performs well in garden beds, raised beds, and containers while delivering steady harvests throughout the cool months.

Features

• Peppery, watercress-like flavor
• Fast-growing cool-season green
• Non-GMO heirloom seed variety
• Thrives in early spring and fall
• Suitable for containers, raised beds, and open gardens
• High-yield leafy green with continuous harvest potential
• Cold-hardy and dependable across US climates
• Easy to grow for beginners

Specifications

• Common Name: Upland Cress, American Land Cress, Creasy Greens
• Scientific Name: Barbarea verna
• Plant Type: Annual or biennial (grown as annual)
• USDA Zones: 3–10
• Season: Cool season—spring and fall
• Height: 6–12 inches
• Leaf Type: Dark green, tender, peppery leaves
• Bloom Color: Yellow (if allowed to bolt)
• Heirloom: Yes
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Organic: Not certified organic
• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Preference: Moist, well-drained, fertile soil
• Water Needs: Moderate, consistent moisture
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Days to Harvest: 40–55 days
• Cold Tolerance: High
• Heat Tolerance: Low; prefers cool weather
• Plant Spacing: 4–6 inches
• Seed Longevity: 2–3 years in cool, dry storage

Planting Guide 

• Sowing Method: Direct sow outdoors or start indoors.
• Seed Preparation: No pre-treatment needed.
• When to Plant:
• Early spring as soon as soil can be worked
• Late summer to early fall for second harvest season
• Sowing Depth: 1/8 inch.
• Germination Time: 5–14 days depending on soil temperature.
• Spacing: 4–6 inches apart in rows or containers.
• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade.
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil with steady moisture.
• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during warm spells.
• Maintenance:
• Harvest outer leaves regularly
• Succession plant every 2–3 weeks for continuous harvest
• Keep cool to prevent bolting