When to Plant Sorrel in Monterey 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.
Monterey County, California is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is March 13 and the first fall frost is November 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 249 days.
At an elevation of 260 feet, Monterey County receives approximately 12.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 93°F, providing good warmth for Sorrel during the growing season. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Sorrel successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Monterey County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.7-7.2
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 — Monterey County, CA
Sorrel Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 13 | Feb 13 – Feb 27 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 6 | Mar 6 – Mar 20 |
| Direct Sow | February 20 | Feb 20 – Mar 13 |
| Fall Sowing | September 22 | Sep 22 – Oct 6 |
| Harvest | April 17 | Apr 17 – Jun 19 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| 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 9b
Growing Season
249 days
Growing Tips for Monterey 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 Monterey County, CA?
Monterey County is in Zone 9b with an average last frost of March 13. Plan your Sorrel planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Monterey County, CA?
Monterey County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is March 13 and first fall frost is November 17.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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