Barbarea verna
TAXONOMY
FamilyBrassicaceae
GenusBarbarea
Zone4
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Barbarea verna, commonly known as Wintercress or Upland Cress, is a biennial herb in the Brassicaceae family. Native to Europe, it has naturalized in many temperate regions around the world. It is known for its rosette of dark green leaves and yellow flowers. The plant typically enters a dormancy period during the winter months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
American Cress
Belle Island Cress
Early Wintercress
Early Yellowrocket
Erysimum Tenuifolium
Erysimum Vernum
Barbarea australis
Barbarea brevistyla
Barbarea erysimoides
Barbarea longisiliqua
Barbarea patula
Barbarea praecox
Campe praecox
Campe verna
Crucifera praecox
Erysimum praecox
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature18° C
Humidity60%
GDD900
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Wintercress prefers moderate temperatures and should be grown in a location that receives direct bright light for several hours a day. It thrives in environments with moderate humidity and should be watered when the soil partially dries out. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth.Harvest
Barbarea verna, commonly known as winter cress or upland cress, is typically ready for harvest about 60 days after planting. Harvesting should be done when the leaves are young and tender for the best flavor, usually before the plant bolts and produces flowers. To harvest, cut the outer leaves about 1 inch above the base, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing for subsequent harvests. Ensure to keep the soil consistently moist and free of weeds to promote healthy growth.Soil
Wintercress grows best in well-draining loam soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to support healthy growth.Repotting
Repot Wintercress when it outgrows its container or every 1-2 years. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its current pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.Propagation
Wintercress can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. Sow seeds in early spring or late summer. For cuttings, take a healthy stem, remove the lower leaves, and place it in water or moist soil until roots develop.Pruning
Prune Wintercress regularly to remove dead or yellowing leaves and to maintain its shape. Pruning also encourages new growth and prevents the plant from becoming leggy.Toxicity
Wintercress is not toxic to pets or humans. It is safe to grow in gardens where pets and children may be present.Additional
Wintercress is often grown for its edible leaves, which have a peppery flavor and can be used in salads and other dishes. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate light frost, making it suitable for cooler climates.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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