How to Grow Mache

Corn salad or Mache (Valerianella locusta) are small annual plants preferring a cooler climate. Their sweet & delicate flavour makes them a perfect addition in salads or served on their own with a tangy vinaigrette

Full sun, but can adapt to partial shade

Regular watering

Well drained with organic matter

Suitable for all climatic zones

Pick leaves late in the cold season

From mid autumn

How to grow mache in a garden

Step 1

Buy seeds from your local nursery or online.

Step 2

Choose a spot that receives plenty of sun and is well protected from strong winds. Prior to planting, improve your soil by digging in compost & Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser. Sow directly by sprinkling the seeds over the soil.

Step 3

Water in well.

Step 4

The seeds generally sprout within two weeks.

Step 5

You can leave them in clumps or thin them out if desired.

Step 6

As seedlings grow, feed weekly with Yates Thrive Vegie & Herb Liquid Plant Food to encourage good foliage production.

Step 7

Start harvesting after plants have produced four pairs of leaves. Continuous harvest at regular intervals encourages new growth.

How to grow mache in a pot

Step 1

Choose 300 mm wide or larger pots of any shape. Fill with quality potting mix, such as Yates Potting Mix with Dynamic Lifter.

Step 2

Sow the seeds and cover them with a light layer of the potting mix.

Step 3

Position the pots in full sun.

Step 4

Water in well.

Step 5

Allow them to grow in patches or clumps.

Step 6

Feed every 3 weeks with Yates Thrive Vegie & Herb Liquid Plant Food.

Step 7

Start harvesting after plants have produced four pairs of leaves. Continuous harvest at regular intervals encourages new growth.

Yates varieties

Growing tips

Since Mache have very tender leaves, try leaving the plant alone until harvest time, as it does get bruised easily.
Mache being annual tolerates some warmth, but will eventually die. If you let it seed, they will eventually sprout in autumn.
Varieties –
- 'Verte de Cambrai' is common and has vigorous growth.
- Dutch Large – Larger growth than 'Verte de Cambrai' and is more upright and tastes slightly different than the other variety.