I grew mache for a few years in the cool season and we like the taste very much. I don't think the seeds last very long. I just direct seeded mine when it was warm enough to germinate then it grew in the cool weather. The instructions that I see online say it will germinate between 50 and 70 degrees but warmer temperatures may deter germination. Sow seeds 1/4-1/2" deep. Germination is 7-14 days.

I planted miner's lettuce in our greenhouse the first fall it was operational--4 years ago--and haven't had to plant it since. I let way, way too much go to seed last spring though and now I have a solid mat of it where I also planted carrots. Haven't tried mache.

I've been thinking about going out and throwing seeds in a pot and ignoring them. Thanks ladies.

Amy, That's how I grow both of them. I scatter-sow the seeds on the soil surface, just barely press the seed into the soil and then ignore it. They will sprout and grow like crazy and reseed forever, as Dorothy noted. Any time I am dealing with something that is picky about sprouting and growing, I just sow the seed in a place where I DON'T want it, and it sprouts and grows like mad. That method works every time.

Dawn

How do ya'll pronounce mache?

LOL, I'm assuming it's French. I've been saying maw shay. But I've never looked it up. I could be way off.

And Martha Stewart pronounces it mawsh.