Taming the Wild Erect Cress: A Guide to Propagating Barbarea stricta
The world of edible wild plants is vast and often overlooked. One such plant, the Barbarea stricta, more commonly known as the Erect Cress or the Small-Flowered Winter Cress, offers a surprising source of flavor and nutrients for the adventurous gardener. While commercially cultivated varieties are rare, understanding how to propagate this hardy plant opens a doorway to enjoying its unique, peppery taste.
Embracing the Basics: Understanding Barbarea stricta
Before diving into propagation, let’s get acquainted with the Erect Cress. This biennial plant is part of the Brassicaceae family, making it a relative of broccoli and mustard. True to its name, it features erect stems, reaching heights of 1 to 3 feet. The small, yellow flowers appear in clusters during spring, eventually giving way to slender seed pods.
Why bother with Barbarea stricta? Its leaves, especially when young and tender, offer a spicy, cress-like flavor that adds a kick to salads, sandwiches, and even stir-fries. Beyond its culinary appeal, Erect Cress is a rich source of vitamins C and A, making it a nutritional powerhouse.
Two Paths to Propagation: Seeds and Cuttings
Barbarea stricta proves to be quite adaptable when it comes to propagation. You can choose between starting from seed or taking cuttings:
1. The Seed Route: Sowing for Success
- Timing is Key: Direct sow seeds in early spring or late summer. Spring sowing allows for harvesting in the same year, while late summer sowing results in overwintered plants with earlier growth next spring.
- Location, Location, Location: Choose a site with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. While Barbarea stricta tolerates various soil types, it favors slightly moist conditions.
- Sowing Depth: Sow seeds at a depth of ¼ inch and space them about 6 inches apart.
- Thinning Out: Once seedlings develop a few true leaves, thin them out to about 12 inches apart to ensure adequate airflow and light penetration.
2. The Cutting Edge: Propagating from Established Plants
- The Right Time: Take cuttings in the spring or early summer from healthy, actively growing plants.
- Selecting Cuttings: Choose stems that are about 4-6 inches long and free of flowers or seed pods.
- Preparation is Key: Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving only a few leaves at the top. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional but recommended).
- Planting the Cuttings: Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix, burying at least one node below the soil surface.
- Creating a Humid Environment: Cover the cuttings with a plastic bag or humidity dome to maintain moisture. Place them in a location with bright, indirect light.
Caring for Your Barbarea stricta:
- Water Wisely: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Weed Control: Regularly remove weeds that compete for resources.
- Fertilization: While not mandatory, amending the soil with compost before planting provides nutrients.
- Harvesting: Begin harvesting young leaves as soon as the plants are established. Regular harvesting encourages bushier growth and a continuous supply.
Taming the Wild:
Propagating Barbarea stricta, while seemingly adventurous, is surprisingly straightforward. By following these steps, even novice gardeners can enjoy the unique flavor and nutritional benefits of this easily overlooked wild edible. So why not embrace a bit of “wildness” and bring the spicy character of Erect Cress to your garden and table?