How to Grow CDC Sorrel
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CDC Sorrel
Rumex acetosa
herbCDC Sorrel is a cold-hardy perennial herb developed by the Crop Development Centre in Saskatchewan, Canada, known for its tangy, lemony flavor and nutrient-dense leaves. The plant produces broad, arrow-shaped leaves that can be harvested continuously throughout the growing season. It's prized for its vigor in northern climates and exceptional hardiness compared to conventional sorrel varieties.
When should you plant CDC Sorrel in your zone?
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Example CDC Sorrel timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant CDC Sorrel
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest CDC Sorrel
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Exceptionally hardy in zones 2-6, performing well into zone 7; developed specifically for cold climates
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Get my CDC Sorrel timeline →Growth Stages
Seed Germination
10-14 daysSmall seedlings emerge with cotyledons followed by first true leaves; very fragile at this stage
Keep soil warm (60-65°F) and consistently moist; provide bottom heat if starting indoors; thin seedlings to prevent crowding
Seedling/Transplant
3-4 weeksMultiple true leaves develop (4-6 leaves), plant establishes a small root system; ready for hardening off
Provide bright light; gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions; avoid overwatering to prevent damping off; fertilize lightly with half-strength fertilizer every 2 weeks
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeks (first season); ongoing after transplantingRapid leaf production; plant grows larger with expanding rosette of arrow-shaped leaves; no flowering yet
Pinch back flowering shoots to encourage leaf production; harvest outer leaves regularly to promote bushiness; maintain consistent moisture; feed with balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks
Flowering
6-12 weeks (variable, starts in spring)Tall flowering stalks emerge from center with small reddish or greenish flowers arranged in panicles; plant energy diverts to seed production
Pinch off flower stalks promptly if leaf production is priority; allow some to flower if seed saving desired; flowering reduces leaf quality but is normal in year 2 and beyond
Establishment/Perennial Growth
Ongoing for 5-7+ yearsMature plant settles into multi-season cycle; returns year after year with vigorous spring growth; stronger root system
Cut back in early spring or late fall; divide every 3-4 years to rejuvenate; mulch lightly in winter for snow cover; continue regular harvesting to maintain vigor
Common Pests
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Hand-pick beetles; use row covers on young plants; neem oil spray if infestation severe; encourage natural predators
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Remove affected leaves; spray with insecticidal soap; maintain plant vigor to outgrow damage
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Strong water spray to dislodge; insecticidal soap; neem oil; encourage ladybugs and lacewings
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and
Beer traps; copper barriers; hand-pick in early morning; encourage ground beetles; avoid excessive mulch
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Improve air circulation; water at soil level, not overhead; remove affected leaves; fungicidal spray if severe
Uses
Soups, sauces, and greens
CulinaryFresh leaves add bright, lemony tang to salads, soups (particularly classic French sorrel soup), and sauces. The tart flavor complements fish, poultry, and egg dishes beautifully. [source]
Herb infusions and beverages
CulinaryYoung leaves can be steeped for herbal tea with a refreshing citrus-like flavor. Used traditionally in spring tonics and digestive herbal blends. [source]
Digestive and nutritional support
MedicinalRich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and oxalic acid; traditionally used to support digestion and as a spring tonic. Contains antioxidants and has been used in folk medicine for general health. [source]
Salads and fresh preparations
CulinaryVery young, tender leaves add a distinctive tart component to mixed green salads. Often used as a garnish for fine dining dishes. [source]
Natural cleaning agent
HouseholdContains oxalic acid which can be used for natural rust removal and cleaning purposes on kitchen surfaces and cookware. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin light harvesting 4-6 weeks after transplanting; pinch off outer leaves from base to encourage branching and discourage flowering; harvest regularly (2-3 times per week) for tender, young leaves; remove flower stalks to extend leaf harvest; mature leaves become stringy and increasingly sour; for continuous harvest, never remove more than 1/3 of plant at once; spring and fall produce the most tender, less acidic leaves; summer growth tends to be more bitter
Fun Facts
- 🌱 CDC Sorrel was bred specifically by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's Crop Development Centre in Saskatchewan to thrive in short-season, cold-climate regions—making it one of the hardiest culinary sorrel varieties available, hardy to zone 2.
- 🌱 Sorrel contains oxalic acid, which gives it its distinctive lemony-sour flavor; however, the oxalic acid content decreases in spring and increases again in summer and fall, making spring leaves the mildest and most pleasant for eating.
- 🌱 This is a true perennial that can be harvested for decades from a single planting; a mature established sorrel plant can produce harvestable leaves for 5-7+ years with minimal care, making it an excellent permaculture choice.
Gardening Terms
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