FYI, Mache is listed in seed catalogs as either mache or corn salad. I
have tried Bistro, and some of the others and always keep coming back to
D'Etampes. It will grow in the open ground even up here in Zone 7a, But
will stay cleaner with a little bit of protection. Mache is a little
winter eater!
I have had such incredible success with floating row cover and small
hoophouse, that I grow most of the winter greens in there. (Success
being buttercrunch and bronze arrow lettuce, spinach, arugula, chicory,
endives, carrots all still coming strong for salads)
If I do protect it with plastic, however, Mache is usually planted near
one end, so I can take the protection off it (or it will bolt if we get
a warm spell).