Sorrels in Park End

Rumex acetosa

Sorrel
Sorrel · Rumex acetosa

A hardy leafy perennial grown for its sharp, lemony leaves. In the UK it does best in moist, fertile soil in sun or light shade, and regular picking keeps fresh growth coming through the season.

45 cm · Partial Shade · Moderate Water

Calibrated to Park End · last frost ≈ 30 Apr

Sow April to May, harvest June to October. Frost risk October to April.
ActivityJanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilMayJuneJulyAugustSeptemberOctoberNovemberDecember
SowNoNoNoYesYesNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
HarvestNoNoNoNoNoYesYesYesYesYesNoNo

Growing guide

Step-by-step instructions for growing Sorrel

  1. 01

    Sow seeds

    9 Apr to 31 May every 3 weeks

    Sow small batches around 9th April - 31st May, in shallow drills or modules. Keep the soil lightly moist and sow a fresh batch every 21 days for a longer picking season.

  2. 02

    Thin seedlings

    19 May to 26 May

    When seedlings are big enough to handle, thin them to the strongest plants at apart. Do it as soon as they can be handled, then water the row well so the roots settle.

  3. 03

    Protect from slugs

    19 May to 4 Jul

    Check plants from 19th May and keep the area clear of weeds and hiding places. Use barriers or pellets if needed, because young sorrel leaves can be nibbled hard in damp weather.

  4. 04

    Water regularly

    26 May to 27 Oct

    From 26th May, water whenever the top of the soil starts to dry out. Keep the bed evenly moist, as dry checks make the leaves tougher and can push plants to bolt.

  5. 05

    Harvest leaves

    30 Jun to 27 Oct

    Start picking from 30th June once plants are well established, then keep cutting outer leaves through 27th October. Pick little and often, and leave the centre growing so the plant keeps producing.

Companion plants

Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Sorrel.

Good companions

Plants to avoid

Why companion planting matters

Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.

Suggested varieties

Popular varieties of Sorrel to consider

Large de Belleville

A classic broad-leaved sorrel with strong flavour and good leaf size for repeated picking.

Blonde de Lyon

A milder, pale-green sorrel that gives tender leaves and a steady crop in the garden.

Sorrel guides by town

See how Sorrel timing shifts in other towns with different frost dates.