Cress, Upland - 1/2oz

Upland Cress, also known as Garden Cress or Peppergrass, is a fast-growing green with a peppery flavor. It’s popular in salads, sandwiches or in garnishing. It is a plant that is easy to cultivate, and is nutritious as well as delicious.

What is Upland Cress?

Upland Cress (Barbarea verna) is a plant from the mustard family, which is a biennial herb. It’s like watercress, but it’s more pungent and spicier. Upland Cress has rosette-like leaves that are green and slightly toothed. It’s also great for those who want to kick up the taste of their food.

Steps to Grow Upland Cress

Upland Cress is simple to grow and needs only a few things in order to flourish.

1. Upland Cress seeds should be sown 1/4 inch deep.
2. Sow the seeds 2–3 inches apart to provide enough space for them to grow.
3. Space the plants 8-10 inches apart when planting in rows to help with air circulation.
4. Once the seedlings have grown 2-3 inches tall, thin them out so that they are 4- 6 inches apart to help the plants grow well.
5. Upland Cress is most productive when grown in full sun to partial shade.
6. It grows best in moist to well drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 - 7.0).
7. Upland Cress likes the cooler weather and should be sown in early spring or fall to prevent heat stress.
8. The harvest may begin in approximately 4–6 weeks, when the height of the leaves is 3–4 inches. To ensure a continuous crop, sow fresh seeds every 10–14 days.

Culinary Uses of Upland Cress

Upland Cress is an all purpose herb that can be used in many culinary dishes. It’s got a robust, peppery flavor and is great for injecting some kick into the salads, sandwiches, or wraps.

• In Salads: Toss fresh Upland Cress leaves into the salad mix for a peppery kick.
• In Sandwiches: Instead of lettuce or arugula, use it as a sharp, spicy note.
• In Soups: Add to soups for added flavor.
• As a Pesto: It may be whipped with garlic, nuts, and olive oil and added to a special pesto.
• Sautéed: Cook it lightly in butter or oil for a warm side dish.

Upland Cress works well in recipes calling for watercress, arugula or mustard greens.

Nutritional Benefits

Upland Cress is not only tasty, but it is also densely packed with nutrients. It’s a great supplement to a healthy diet.

• Vitamins: It’s packed with vitamins A, C, and K, which are great for immune function, skin health and blood clotting.
• Minerals: Upland Cress is a good source of calcium and iron, which contribute to bone health and are used to transport oxygen.
• Antioxidants: This herb is packed with antioxidants that help shield the body from oxidative stress.
• Fiber: It also contains fiber, which is good for digestion.

Incorporating Upland Cress into the everyday diet can be beneficial for optimum health and wellness.

Growing Tips for Success

Here are a few simple tips to ensure Upland Cress grows well:

• Add compost to improve soil fertility and drainage.
• Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
• Mulch to conserve moisture and control weeds.
• Use row covers to protect plants from insects and keep the growing season going.
• Be on the lookout for aphids and caterpillars. Handle them with organic insecticidal soap, if necessary.

For best growth, cut leaves continually to spur new growth, and keep the plant from going woody.

Why Choose Our Upland Cress Seeds?

Upland Cress is a selected variety chosen for its high germination rate and ability to grow. They are non-GMO, meaning gardeners can grow a healthier, more sustainable garden. Quality is the highest priority, and all seeds are based on an ideal environment. Growcycle's friendly customer service team is available to answer any growing questions.

Final Thoughts

It is a good herb for any garden. With its quick spread, easy maintenance, and delectable taste, it is the ideal crop for novice and advanced gardeners. Whether for its flavor or its healing properties, Upland Cress deserves a spot in the herb garden.