How to Grow Sorrel

Updated June 2026

A cool-season leafy for the home garden across the warmer US.

What it looks like as it grows

Sorrel is a rewarding cool-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Sorrel is a cool-season crop. In the South and Southwest, plant in fall through winter when the heat eases. See your region on the sorrel page for exact timing.

Varieties

French Sorrel, Tangy, lemony leaves (Botanical Interests)

How to grow it

Sun & soil: part sun to light shade, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
Spacing: about 12 in between plants.
Sowing: barely cover the seed.
Water: roughly 1.1 gal per plant every 2 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Slugs. In humid regions, Leaf spot can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Sorrel is usually ready to harvest in about 2 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant sorrel where you garden.

See what to plant this month

Pick your region for a month-by-month calendar tuned to your climate.

Find your region →