Upland Cress

Upland Cress: variety and characteristics

Upland Cress (Lepidium sativum) is an annual herb of the Cabbage family (Brassicaceae). Upland cress has a sharp and spicy flavour. Much easier to cultivate and an ideal winter and spring herb.

It can be used as a salad. It can be grown indoors in a pot because it germinates quickly.

The herb also contains a significant amount of carotene, vit. C, provitamin D, vitamins B1 B2 and E, mineral salts of potassium, iron, calcium, potassium nitrate.

Cress is the fastest green — ready in 2–3 weeks, with a spicy taste similar to horseradish. Grows in the garden, in a pot and on the windowsill.

Key features

• Measured germination rate of the batch: 96%
• Pack size: 2 g
• Seed origin: Netherlands
• Sowing: March and April; direct
• Harvest: May – July
• Position: sun to partial shade

When to sow Upland Cress

Upland Cress seeds are sown in March and April. The crop is harvested from May to July. The months are a guide for a temperate climate — in warmer areas sow 1–2 weeks earlier, in cooler or upland areas, later.

How to sow and grow Upland Cress

• Sowing method: direct
• Depth: 0.5 cm
• Spacing: thickly, in rows 10 cm apart
• Germination: 2–4 days at 15–20 °C
• Position: sun to partial shade

Outdoor sowing is possible from March to April. Sprinkle the seeds onto the soil only and press down lightly. Germinates easily in 7-14 days at temperatures between 15-20°C. Planting distance is 20 x 20 cm. Flowers from May to July. Likes sunny to partially shaded places.

Sow every 2 weeks; keep the soil moist.

Harvest and use

Cut at a height of 5–10 cm.

Frequently asked questions

When should Upland Cress be sown?

The recommended sowing months are March and April. Sowing method: direct.

What is the germination rate of the seeds?

The measured germination rate of this batch is 96%. The test was carried out under controlled laboratory conditions; in the field, emergence depends on soil, temperature and moisture.