Land Cress is a hardy leafy green grown for its peppery, flavourful leaves that offer an easy alternative to watercress or spinach. It is well suited to Canadian gardens and thrives in cooler conditions. The dark green leaves are nutritious, tender, and make a great addition to salads, sandwiches, or cooked greens. Fast growing and resilient, it’s perfect for small-space or low-maintenance gardening.

Where Can You Grow Land Cress?
This versatile plant thrives in Zones 3-9 and performs well in partial shade or dappled light. It is not fussy about soil type but does best in well-drained soil with regular watering. It grows easily in containers, raised beds, and traditional garden plots.

History and Historical Uses
Land Cress (sometimes called American Cress or Belle Isle Cress) has been used for centuries as a nutritious green in both European and North American kitchen gardens. Its spicy flavour and ease of cultivation made it a favourite during times when watercress was unavailable or difficult to grow. It’s also known for its rich vitamin C content and has been used historically in early spring diets for its cleansing and strengthening properties.

Canadian Zone Information
Zones 8-9: Direct sow from early spring to autumn for near-continuous harvest.
Zones 5-7: Sow from March to September; self-seeds for ongoing crops.
Zones 3-4: Sow in spring after frost or late summer for a fall harvest; mulch well for protection.

How to Grow and Harvest Land Cress

Planting: Sow seeds 0.5cm (¼in) deep in partial shade, thinning to 10-15cm (4-6in) apart.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially in warm or dry weather.
Harvesting: Pick young outer leaves as needed; plants will continue to produce.
Maintenance: Allow a few plants to go to seed to ensure self-sown crops the following season.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply

Let Plants Flower: Allow mature plants to bolt and form seed pods.
Collect Seeds: Once pods dry on the plant, harvest and gently crush to release seeds.
Dry and Store: Dry completely before storing in a cool, dark place. Seeds remain viable for up to 4 years.

Certified Organic By
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)