Mastering Mâche: Your Complete Guide to Growing and Harvesting this Delicate Salad Green

Are you looking to add a unique and delicious salad green to your garden? Look no further than mâche, also known as Valerianella locusta. This tender green thrives in cool weather and is a delightful addition to any garden. In this comprehensive plant profile, we will explore everything you need to know about growing, caring for, and harvesting mâche.

The Beauty of Mâche

Mâche is an annual plant that is often found wild in many areas. Its nickname, “corn salad,” comes from its tendency to grow in corn fields. Today, there are several cultivated varieties of mâche with larger leaves and sweeter flavors, perfect for backyard gardens. These plants form low rosettes of elongated, dark green leaves that can reach up to 4 inches in length.

While technically hardy in zones 5 to 8, mâche is typically grown as an annual in all zones due to its short lifespan. There are two main types of mâche to choose from: large-seeded and small-seeded varieties. Large-seeded mâche can withstand the initial heat of summer, making it more versatile than its small-seeded counterpart.

Getting Started: Planting Mâche

When it comes to planting mâche, you have the option to sow seeds directly in the garden. In colder climates, sow in early spring, while in warmer areas, fall planting is suitable. Ensure that soil temperatures are between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit for successful germination. Keep in mind that mâche can be slow to sprout, with germination taking between seven to 12 days.

To sow mâche, simply broadcast the seeds and lightly cover them with soil. As seedlings emerge, thin them out to allow for proper spacing. Growing plants should be watered weekly, and you can extend the harvest season by succession planting every two weeks throughout spring. For a fall crop, cool the soil by watering it well and covering it with a board before sowing.

Caring for Your Mâche

Mâche is a low-maintenance plant that doesn’t require much attention. Keep the soil moist and weed-free, and your plants will thrive. As temperatures rise in the summer, mâche may start to flower and set seed, signaling the end of its life cycle. At this point, the leaves become bitter and unpalatable, so it’s time to pull out the plants.

Light

Provide full sun exposure in the early spring to help warm the soil and promote growth. As the weather warms up, mâche appreciates partial shade, especially in the afternoon.

Soil

Mâche is not picky when it comes to soil, but it does prefer well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Aim for a soil pH between 6.5 and 7.0 for optimal growth.

Water

Water regularly in the early morning hours, increasing frequency if plants are exposed to full sun.

Temperature and Humidity

Mâche can tolerate temperatures as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit but prefers soil temperatures between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit for germination. The plant will bolt in hot weather, so be mindful of summer temperatures.

Fertilizer

Since mâche has a short growing season, it does not require additional fertilization. Prior to planting, amend the soil with compost or manure for added nutrients.

Varieties of Mâche

While many seeds are simply labeled as “Mache” or “Corn Salad,” seed companies are introducing named varieties for gardeners to explore. Look for varieties like ‘Bistro’, ‘Piedmont’, ‘Verte d’Etampes’, and ‘Verte De Cambrai’ to add diversity to your garden.

Harvesting Your Mâche

Mâche is a cut-and-come-again crop, meaning you can continuously harvest leaves as needed. Begin by picking the outer leaves when they reach about 3 inches in length, leaving the rosette intact for future growth. While you can harvest entire heads, they are less likely to regrow. Enjoy the nutty flavor of mâche in salads with a light dressing or as a warm side dish.

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

The primary pest to watch out for when growing mâche is slugs. These creatures love the tender leaves as much as we do, so take preventative measures like using copper barriers or natural repellents to keep them at bay.

In conclusion, mâche is a delightful and versatile salad green that is easy to grow in your garden. With proper care and attention, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of this delicious leafy green all season long. So, why not add mâche to your garden this year and elevate your salads to a whole new level of flavor and freshness?