Cold-hardy greens with a peppery kick!
Upland Cress, also known as Creasy Greens or Winter Cress, is a bold little green that thrives when the weather cools down. With its spicy, mustard-like flavor and glossy leaves, it’s a favorite for early spring and fall gardens, and for gardeners who like a little bite in their greens.
Variety:Â Upland Cress (Barbarea verna)
Growth Habit:Â Cool-season biennial (grown as annual)
Height: 6–10 inches
Flavor Profile:Â Spicy, mustardy, and bold
Color:Â Deep green, glossy leaves
Planting Conditions:Â Direct sow in full sun to partial shade; prefers moist soil
Harvest Timeline: Leaves ready in 40–50 days
Uses: Fresh in salads, sautéed, or added to sandwiches and soups
Fun Fact: Upland Cress is native to Europe but has naturalized in the U.S., especially in the Appalachian South, where it’s a traditional spring delicacy.
Upland Cress is a cool-weather champion. Its spicy, tender leaves are perfect for adding a peppery punch to salads, sandwiches, or a quick sauté with garlic and olive oil. It’s especially beloved in Southern kitchens and thrives in cold frames or tucked into early spring beds. If you’re craving greens before most plants are ready, this one’s your go-to.
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🌞 Choose a Sunny Spot: Full sun to partial shade with moist, well-drained soil.
🌱 Sow the Seeds: Sow ¼ inch deep, spacing seeds 2–3 inches apart.
💧 Water Consistently: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells.
🌿 Thin and Maintain: Thin to 4–6 inches apart once seedlings are up.
✂️ Harvest: Snip young leaves for the best flavor. Cut-and-come-again harvesting is encouraged to keep the greens coming.
