Propagation and Cultivation.—It is easily raised from seed, which should be sown in May, where the plants are to remain. Sow in shallow drills twelve or fourteen inches apart, and cover with fine mould. Thin the young plants to four inches asunder, and treat the growing crop in the usual manner during the summer. Late in autumn, cover the bed with coarse stable-litter, and remove it the last of February. In March and April, the plants will be ready for the table.
Use.—It is used in the manner of Spinach. "When boiled, the taste approaches that of the Cabbage, but is softer and milder. The plant varies wonderfully in size, and succulence of leaves, according to the nature and state of the soil where it grows. Those from the gardens and highly cultivated spots near Philadelphia come to a remarkable size, and succulence of leaf. It may be easily bleached by the common method; and, in that state, would be a valuable addition to our list of delicate culinary vegetables."
In April and May it may be gathered, growing spontaneously about cultivated lands; and, though not so excellent as the cultivated plants, will yet be found of good quality.
SORREL.
Rumex. sp. et var.
Sorrel is a hardy perennial. The species, as well as varieties, differ to a considerable extent in height and general habit; yet their uses and culture are nearly alike.
Soil and Cultivation.—All of the sorts thrive best in rich, moist soil; but may be grown in almost any soil or situation. The seeds are sown in April or May, in drills fifteen or eighteen inches apart, and covered half an inch in depth. The young plants should be thinned to twelve inches apart; and, in July and August, the leaves will be sufficiently large for gathering.
The varieties are propagated by dividing the roots in April or May; and this method must be adopted in propagating the diœcious kinds, when male plants are required. "The best plants, however, are obtained from seed; but the varieties, when sown, are liable to return to their original type. All the care necessary is to hoe the ground between the rows, when needed to fork it over in spring and autumn, and to take up the plants, divide and reset them every three or four years, or less frequently, if they are growing vigorously and produce full-sized leaves."
All of the sorts, whether produced from seeds or by parting the roots, will send up a flower-stalk in summer; and this it is necessary to cut out when first developed, in order to render the leaves larger and more tender.