Sorrels in Penrhosfeilw

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 Penrhosfeilw · last frost ≈ 30 Mar

Sow March to April, harvest May to November. Frost risk November to March.
ActivityJanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilMayJuneJulyAugustSeptemberOctoberNovemberDecember
SowNoNoYesYesNoNoNoNoNoNoNoNo
HarvestNoNoNoNoYesYesYesYesYesYesYesNo

Growing guide

Step-by-step instructions for growing Sorrel

  1. 01

    Sow seeds

    9 Mar to 30 Apr every 3 weeks

    Sow small batches around 9th March - 30th April, 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

    18 Apr to 25 Apr

    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

    18 Apr to 3 Jun

    Check plants from 18th April 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

    25 Apr to 29 Nov

    From 25th April, 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 May to 29 Nov

    Start picking from 30th May once plants are well established, then keep cutting outer leaves through 29th November. 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.