When to Plant Sorrel in Madera County, CA
Sorrel is a perennial herb with tangy, lemon-flavored arrow-shaped leaves. It is one of the first greens to emerge in spring and is used in soups and salads.
Madera County, California is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and the first fall frost is November 9, giving you a growing season of approximately 205 days.
At an elevation of 187 feet, Madera County receives approximately 14.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 104°F, so Sorrel may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Sorrel successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Madera County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Sorrel Planting Timeline — Madera County, CA
Sorrel Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 21 | Mar 21 – Apr 4 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 11 | Apr 11 – Apr 25 |
| Direct Sow | March 28 | Mar 28 – Apr 18 |
| Fall Sowing | September 14 | Sep 14 – Sep 28 |
| Harvest | May 23 | May 23 – Jul 25 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
40–60 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 9a
Growing Season
205 days
Growing Tips for Madera County
Direct sow in early spring or fall. Remove flower stalks promptly to encourage leaf production. Divide clumps every 3-4 years. Young leaves have the best flavor.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Sorrel in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Sorrel in Madera County, CA?
Madera County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of April 18. Plan your Sorrel planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Madera County, CA?
Madera County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and first fall frost is November 9.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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