Pest identification
What's eating my french sorrel?
Aphids
Signs: Curled, sticky leaves; clusters of small green or black insects on new shoots and leaf undersides
Control: Blast off with a strong jet of water; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil spray; encourage ladybirds and lacewings
Slugs & Snails
Signs: Irregular holes and ragged edges in leaves, especially overnight; silvery slime trails on foliage and soil
Control: Hand-pick at night; use copper tape barriers; apply iron phosphate slug pellets (pet-safe); keep area clear of debris
Leaf Miners
Signs: Pale, winding tunnels or blotches visible within leaf tissue
Control: Remove and destroy affected leaves; use yellow sticky traps for adult flies; row cover prevents egg-laying
Keep french sorrel pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
French Sorrel pests — FAQ
What is eating my french sorrel?
French Sorrel is most commonly attacked by aphids and slugs outdoors. Aphids cluster on new growth and undersides of leaves, while slugs and snails shred foliage overnight. Leaf miners tunnel visible trails through leaves. Deer and rabbits may graze plants to the ground. Good air circulation and prompt removal of damaged leaves are key defenses.
How do I get rid of aphids on french sorrel?
Curled, sticky leaves; clusters of small green or black insects on new shoots and leaf undersides Blast off with a strong jet of water; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil spray; encourage ladybirds and lacewings
How do I get rid of slugs & snails on french sorrel?
Irregular holes and ragged edges in leaves, especially overnight; silvery slime trails on foliage and soil Hand-pick at night; use copper tape barriers; apply iron phosphate slug pellets (pet-safe); keep area clear of debris
How do I get rid of leaf miners on french sorrel?
Pale, winding tunnels or blotches visible within leaf tissue Remove and destroy affected leaves; use yellow sticky traps for adult flies; row cover prevents egg-laying