Grow Large Leaf Sorrel from fresh Rumex acetosa herb seeds. Large Leaf Sorrel is among one of the most flavorful varieties available. With its lemony flavor it can be enjoyed as an herb, or cooked as a vegetable. If picked or harvested when the leaves are small, this delicious herb can be used as a lettuce leaf substitute. Grown as a perennial herb, Sorrel will establish deep roots within the first season.
Some health benefits for Sorrel, Broad Leaf include improved eyesight, strengthened immune system, improved digestion, stronger bones, increased circulation, lower blood pressure and can even lower your risk of cancer as well.
Sowing The Seed
Sorrel is a perennial herb that can be sown indoors or directly outdoors. If sown indoors, sow in peat pots, 2 to 4 weeks prior to the last frost. Place the seeds at a shallow depth of roughly 1/16″ under topsoil so that light can still reach the seeds. Transplant or direct sow outdoors when temperatures are cooler but all danger of frost has passed.
Growing Conditions
Sorrel enjoys temperatures of roughly 68F or above. Again, since this herb does better in cooler temperatures, keeping the plants in full sun in cooler climates is recommended. Place in partial shade in warmer climates. The soil should be filled with organic matter and should also be well drained as well. Adding compost to hard, compacted soil can improve drainage. Water daily until seeds germinate.
Germination & Growth
Your Sorrel herb seeds will begin to sprout open within roughly 7 to 14 days or so. The plants themselves will reach a mature height of about 18 to 24 inches tall and can spread up to 18 inches wide. Their deeply established root system can be tricky to get rid of if you only want to grow as an annual, so growing them in pots is best. The leaves can be enjoyed when small or at full size.