Some wild greens are found outside, growing on their own and while others require some cultivation to reach their full potential. Either way, wild greens like arugula or mache make a great addition to any meal.
Over the last 20 years, arugula has developed a gourmet reputation. But for many years it was considered a poor man's annual green harvested from fields through the winter.
There are a few specialized varieties:
- Sylvetta has a deeply serrated leaf
- Astro is more heat tolerant
- Wasabi has even more bite than regular arugula.
Mache is a cold tolerant green, though not as well-known as arugula. It's also called corn salad because it's commonly planted after the corn harvest to grow in the cool of fall and winter.
Mache also has a number of different varieties including the mildew resistant Vit mache.
How To Plant Wild Greens:
Both arugula and mache can germinate in 40 degree soil, making them good choices for early spring plantings in cold frames.
- Plant in well-drained soil amended with compost and cover with floating row covers to protect them from pests and freezing weather.
This Week's Garden Tip:
Don't forget about your house plants! Give subtropical foliage plants such as philodendron and ficus a shower. They'll appreciate the leaf wash and look better for the rest of the winter.
