How to grow Sorrel in Australia
A leafy perennial for full sun to part shade in moist, fertile soil. Keep watering steady for tender, tangy leaves and to slow bolting.
At a glance
- Difficulty: Beginner
- Sun: Part shade
- Water: 4 litres a week, watered every 2 days
- Spacing: 30 cm
- Time to harvest: 60 days
- Time to germinate: 10 days
- Soil pH: 5.5 to 7
- Frost tolerance: Frost hardy
When to sow by region
| Region | When to sow | Regional note |
|---|---|---|
| South East Queensland | March to September | |
| Northern Rivers NSW | March to September | |
| Sydney & Coastal NSW | March to September | |
| Melbourne & Victoria | March to September | Sow Mar to Sep. Perennial; frost-hardy. Thrive in Melbourne winter. Extend window. |
| Adelaide & SA | March to September | |
| Perth & WA | March to September | |
| Tasmania | September to March | Sow Sep to Mar. Hardy perennial that picks almost year-round. |
| Canberra & ACT | March to September | Sorrel is cold-hardy perennial; plant spring-autumn; thrives in cool Canberra season; divide clumps every 2 years. |
| North Queensland | May to September | Dry season May to Sep. Sorrel (perennial) handles tropical dry season. |
| Darwin & Top End | May to September | Dry season May to Sep. Sorrel (perennial) handles tropical dry season. |
Companion planting
Good companions
Harvest and storage
Harvest tip
Pick young outer leaves while they are bright and tender for the sharpest flavour. Snap leaves at the base and the plant keeps pushing new growth.
Storage
Fridge in a damp cloth, up to 4 days.