Corn Salad

Valerianella locusta

vegetable

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

Corn salad is a cold-hardy, fast-growing leafy green with a mild, slightly nutty flavor and tender texture. Also called mâche or lamb's lettuce, it germinates in cool weather and thrives where lettuce struggles. This hardy crop can be harvested in 4–6 weeks and often overwinters in cold climates for early spring harvests.

Common Problems

Select the problem your Corn Salad is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Slow Growthchevron_right

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Boltingchevron_right

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Underwateringchevron_right

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Overwateringchevron_right

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Yellow Leaveschevron_right

Care Guide

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Light

Full sun to light shade; tolerates partial shade. Needs minimum 4–5 hours of sunlight; grows well in cool-season gardens with less light.

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Water

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water gently to avoid damaging tender leaves; 0.5–1 inch weekly.

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Soil

Light, well-draining soil with moderate fertility. pH 6.0–7.5 optimal. Tolerates poorer soils than lettuce.

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Fertiliser

Light feeder; minimal fertilization needed. Apply dilute balanced fertilizer once monthly or side-dress with compost.

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Temperature

Cool-season crop; ideal 50–60°F. Germinates best at 55°F or below. Cold-hardy; survives frosts and light freezes.

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Humidity

Moderate moisture in air; prefers 60–70% humidity. Consistent soil moisture more important than air humidity.

Toxicity

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Corn salad is edible and completely non-toxic to all household members.

Common Diseases

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Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Corn Salad grow when my lettuce won't?

Corn Salad is cold-hardy and germinates best at 55°F or below, thriving where lettuce struggles — it even survives frosts and light freezes, often overwintering in cold climates for early spring harvests.