When to Plant Sorrel in Washington County, NY
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.
Washington County, New York is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 8 and the first fall frost is October 6, giving you a growing season of approximately 151 days.
At an elevation of 133 feet, Washington County receives approximately 49.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Sorrel during the growing season.
Washington County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.7
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
Sorrel Planting Timeline — Washington County, NY
Sorrel Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 3 | Apr 3 – Apr 17 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 1 | May 1 – May 15 |
| Direct Sow | April 24 | Apr 24 – May 15 |
| Fall Sowing | July 28 | Jul 28 – Aug 11 |
| Harvest | June 12 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| September | — |
| 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 5a
Growing Season
151 days
Growing Tips for Washington 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 Washington County, NY?
Washington County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of May 8. Plan your Sorrel planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Washington County, NY?
Washington County, New York is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 8 and first fall frost is October 6.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Washington County gardeners in Zone 5a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.