When to plant Mache in Madera County, CA
In Zone 9a (Madera County), direct-sow Mache between March 28 and April 18 for spring, after the April 18 last-frost mark. A second sowing from September 14 to September 28 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Mache in Madera County, CA
Mache (corn salad) is a cold-hardy salad green with small, rounded, tender leaves and a mild, nutty flavor. It thrives in cool weather and even overwinters in many climates.
Madera County, California is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and the first fall frost is November 9, giving you a growing season of approximately 205 days.
At an elevation of 187 feet, Madera County receives approximately 14.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 104°F, so Mache may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Mache successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Madera County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Mache
Mache needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Mache Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 2.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 2.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 1.3" | 3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| May | 4.3" | 0.4" | 3.9" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 0.1" | 4.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 0" | 4.3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 0" | 4.3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 0.1" | 4.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 0.7" | 3.6" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 1.4" | 2.9" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Dec | — | 2.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Nov in Madera County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Mache Planting Timeline — Madera County, CA
Mache Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 21 | Mar 21 – Apr 4 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 18 | Apr 18 – May 2 |
| Direct Sow | March 28 | Mar 28 – Apr 18 |
| Harvest | May 30 | May 30 – Jul 4 |
| Fall Sowing | September 14 | Sep 14 – Sep 28 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
40–60 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9a
📆 Growing Season
205 days in Madera County
Growing Tips for Madera County
Direct sow in early spring or late summer for fall and winter harvest. Seeds need light to germinate so press gently into soil surface. Harvest whole rosettes.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Mache in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Mache in Madera County, CA?
Madera County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of April 18. Plan your Mache planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Madera County, CA?
Madera County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and first fall frost is November 9.
When should I plant Mache in Madera County, CA?
In Madera County, CA, plant Mache after the last frost (around April 18) and before the first frost (around November 9). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Madera County, CA for Mache?
Madera County sits in USDA Zone 9a. Mache grows reliably in zones 2a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Mache grow in Madera County's climate?
Yes — Mache grows well in Madera County's temperate climate. Madera County averages a 205-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 18 and first frost around November 9.
Your Madera County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Madera County (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.