Overview
Sorrel is a tangy, lemon-flavored leafy green, ideal for salads and soups as well as medicinal uses. It's rich in vitamin C & iron.
Conditions
For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables. Sorrel prefers moist, well-drained soil, and it is hardy in most climates. For the best quality leaves, provide full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight) or partial shade without excessive heat.
Planting
Sow seeds directly in the garden after the last frost, about 1/4" deep, spacing plants 12-18" apart. Or, start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost.
Care
Keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering. Apply a light layer of compost around the base of plants in spring and keep the area weed-free.
Pests and Disease
Sorrel is generally safe for most pets but may cause digestive upset in some. It is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but watch for slugs and snails.
Harvest
Begin harvesting young leaves when they are about 4-6" tall. Harvest leaves regularly to encourage continued growth and store harvested leaves in the refrigerator in a plastic bag for up to a week.
