Dividing sorrel is an effective method to propagate and rejuvenate plant. Sorrel, prized for its tangy leaves used in cooking, benefits from regular division to maintain vigour and productivity. Division is a relatively simple procedure but requires following certain steps to ensure success and health of new plants.
Sorrel: plant with many qualities
Sorrel (Rumex acetosa), also called egret, surette or vinette, is a perennial plant belonging to family Polygonaceae. It is grown for its tender, sour leaves, often used in salads, soups and sauces. Wild sorrel is rich in vitamin C and also in beta-carotin. Over time, sorrel can become overcrowded and less productive, so it is advisable to divide every 3 to 4 years.
Blood sorrel (Rumex sanguineus), also known as wood sorrel, is notable for its bright red veins, which add a spectacular touch of colour to salads and other dishes. Its leaves are slightly smaller and more delicate than common sorrel and have a characteristic tangy flavour that can vary in intensity. Spinach sorrel (Rumex patientia), or Patience, is a sorrel variety that more closely resembles spinach, hence its name. Its large green leaves are less acidic than common sorrel, making it an excellent alternative for those seeking a milder flavour.
Discover all our sorrel varieties in our online nursery, including the famous Sorrel 'Large de Belleville'.
Quick reminder on growing sorrel: sow seeds directly in soil in spring after last frosts, or plant young plants for a faster harvest. Sorrel needs regular watering, especially during dry spells, to keep soil slightly moist but not waterlogged to avoid root rot. Mulch helps conserve soil moisture, reduce weeds and keep leaves clean. Regularly cutting leaves for salads and soups encourages plant to produce new shoots, prolonging productivity.
When to divide?
Ideal time to divide sorrel is early spring or autumn. These times of year offer mild climate and favourable moisture that help divisions establish without stress from extreme summer heat or winter frost.
Where to plant sorrel?
Ideal spot for replanting sorrel divisions is a place receiving sun or partial shade. Sorrel prefers rich, moist, well-drained soil. It is important to choose a site where water does not stand to avoid root rot.
Required equipment
- Spade or digging fork
- Clean knife (if needed for dividing)
- Compost
- Watering can or hose
- Mulch (for example, straw, hemp or wood chips)
Detailed steps for dividing
- Preparing parent plant: before starting, water sorrel well 24 hours in advance. This will help with lifting plant from soil and minimise stress to roots during division.
- Lifting plant: using a spade or digging fork, dig around perimeter of sorrel, taking care not to damage roots too much. Gently lift plant out of soil.
- Dividing clump: with hands or a clean knife, divide clump into several sections. Each section should have at least a good piece of root and several shoots.
- Preparing new planting sites: dig holes large enough to accommodate roots of divisions. Amend soil with compost to enrich and improve soil structure.
- Planting: place each division in its hole, ensuring soil level is same as before. Fill hole with amended soil and firm lightly around base to remove air pockets.
- Watering: water each new plant generously. Water will help establish good contact between roots and soil and encourage plant to take.
- Mulching: apply a layer of mulch around base of plants to help conserve moisture, suppress weeds and maintain soil temperature.
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