Batten Blooms
PL. —Rumex acetosaBotanical illustration — drop image
Rumex acetosa

Sorrel

SpringSummer
3a–9bHardiness zone
Peak bloom windowZone 6b · frost-offset weeks
Winter
Not in bloom
Spring
Peak bloom
Summer
Not in bloom
Fall
Not in bloom
Peak bloom
In bloom
Background

Sorrel is a hardy perennial herb grown for its tart, lemony leaves used in soups, sauces, and salads. It is one of the earliest greens available in spring and tolerates cold well, making it useful when little else is up in upstate New York gardens.

Plant it once and it returns each year. Harvest leaves young for the best flavor and texture. Remove flower stalks as they appear to keep the plant producing leaves rather than going to seed. Divide established clumps every 3–4 years to maintain vigor.

Good companions
StrawberryLacinato KaleMetta Lettuce MixParsley
Care guide
SunFull sun to partial shade
WaterModerate
SoilAverage, well-draining; tolerates clay
Spacing12 inches
Height12–18 inches
Zone3a – 9b
Direct sowFrost hardy
Seasonal tasks
spring
sowDirect sow seeds 1/4 inch deep once soil can be worked.
cutThin seedlings to 12–18 inches apart once they have two true leaves.
summer
cutRemove flower stalks as they appear to extend leaf production.
watchCheck undersides of leaves for orange rust pustules; remove affected leaves.
watchInspect new growth for aphid clusters and rinse off as needed.
cutBegin harvesting young outer leaves once plants reach 4–6 inches.
cutCut plants back hard in late summer for a fresh flush of tender leaves.
fall
cutDivide established clumps every 3–4 years to maintain vigor.
Common problems

Rust

Symptoms

Orange to brown raised pustules on the undersides of leaves, with yellow spotting on the upper surface. Heavy infections cause leaves to yellow and drop.

Treatment

Remove and destroy infected leaves. Avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation. Apply a sulfur or copper-based fungicide if it spreads. Clear plant debris in fall.

Downy mildew

Symptoms

Yellowing on top of leaves with grey-purple fuzz underneath. Spreads rapidly in humid conditions.

Treatment

Remove affected leaves. Improve air circulation. Avoid overhead watering. Copper spray as preventive.

Pests

Aphids

Aphididae →
Symptoms

Clusters of small soft insects on new growth and flower buds.

Treatment

Knock off with a strong jet of water. Ladybirds and lacewings are natural predators. Insecticidal soap as last resort.