Sowing and growing guidance
Perilla frutescens seeds germinate best in warmth and light conditions ranging from full sun to light shade. Sow indoors before the last frost and transplant once danger of frost has passed, or direct sow outdoors when the soil has warmed; in frost-free areas, autumn sowing is possible. Choose a well-drained, moderately fertile substrate and keep evenly moist but never waterlogged. Space plants to allow good air flow, following packet guidance, as plants reach a medium height. Harden off indoor-raised seedlings gradually. Mulch lightly to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, and pinch growing tips to encourage bushier growth. Remove flower spikes if leafy growth is preferred, or allow flowering for late-season interest and seed.
- Start indoors before last frost; transplant after last frost; direct sow when soil has warmed; autumn sowing may be possible in frost-free climates.
- Prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained, moderately fertile soil; avoid waterlogging for healthy roots.
- Edible: leaves are considered culinary; correct identification and pesticide-free cultivation are essential.
- Ornamental: attractive foliage provides colour and texture in beds and borders.
- Pollinator friendly: small flowers can attract visiting insects.
- Container suitable: grows well in pots with free-draining mix and regular, moderate watering.
How do you grow shiso (Perilla frutescens) from seed?
Sow Perilla frutescens seeds indoors before the last frost or outdoors once the soil has warmed and is workable. Press seeds onto the surface or cover very lightly, as they benefit from light for germination. Keep the medium evenly moist and provide warmth; gentle bottom heat helps. Germination can be slow and erratic, so patience and steady conditions are key. Some growers find a short chill in the refrigerator improves results. Transplant carefully after the last frost, hardening plants off first. In mild climates, autumn sowing may be possible for a cool-season start. Avoid waterlogging at any stage.
What are the best growing conditions for Perilla frutescens?
Perilla thrives in full sun to light shade; in intense summer sun, a little afternoon shade can reduce stress. Soil should be well-drained and moderately fertile—overly rich soil can make growth soft and prone to lodging. Keep moisture consistent without saturation. Plants are medium in height and usually grown as a warm-season annual; they are frost-tender. Space plants to allow good airflow and reduce humidity around foliage; avoid crowding. Mulch lightly to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, and avoid heavy, compacted soils that hold water. A balanced, light feeding supports steady growth without making plants leggy.
Can shiso grow in containers?
Yes. Choose a roomy container with drainage holes and fill it with a high-quality, well-drained potting mix. Position in full sun to light shade, ensuring at least several hours of direct light. Container-grown shiso dries out faster than garden soil, so monitor moisture and water when the top layer begins to dry. Feed lightly during the growing season. Pinch growing tips to encourage branching and a bushier habit, and rotate the pot periodically for even growth. Avoid saucers that keep roots sitting in water. In cooler periods, containers warm more slowly, so wait until conditions are reliably mild before setting them out.
How should I harvest shiso leaves and prune for bushy growth?
Begin harvesting once plants are well established, taking individual outer leaves or snipping young stems just above a leaf node to encourage branching. Regular, light picking keeps plants compact and productive. For a bushy shape, pinch the main stem when plants are still young, then continue to tip-prune new shoots. Remove flower buds as they appear if the goal is tender leaves, as flowering tends to reduce leaf quality and slows vegetative growth. Harvest in cool parts of the day to minimise wilting, and avoid stripping too many leaves from a single plant at once so it can continue to photosynthesise.
What are the differences between red and green shiso?
Red (purple) and green shiso are the same species with different leaf pigmentation. Both share similar cultivation needs, but red forms are often chosen for their ornamental foliage and for colouring pickles and ferments, while green types are typically preferred for fresh leaf use. Leaf texture can vary by variety, with some strains more frilly or broad. Growth habit and size are broadly comparable, though individual cultivars may differ. If saving seed true-to-type, keep distinct varieties separated during flowering, as they can cross-pollinate and produce offspring with mixed traits.
Does shiso attract pollinators, and how do I save Perilla frutescens seeds?
Shiso’s late-season flower spikes attract bees and other pollinators, adding ecological value to the garden. To save Perilla frutescens seeds, select healthy plants, allow flower spikes to mature and dry on the plant, then cut and dry further in a ventilated place. Rub out the small seeds, remove chaff, and store in a cool, dry container. Label by variety if needed. Shiso can self-seed readily; deadhead spent spikes if volunteer seedlings are not desired. In frost-free areas, leaving some seed heads in place can encourage natural reseeding for the following season.
Guidance here is compiled from trusted horticultural references and supplier specifications and is intended as general orientation. Growing results vary with microclimate, soil structure and fertility, drainage, exposure, and timing (for example, after last frost or when soil is workable). For precise requirements, individual product pages present seed-lot or batch details, statutory labelling information, and specific sowing, spacing, and maturity guidance provided by the producer.
Successful Sowing and Care
Perilla frutescens seeds germinate best with warmth and light. Start under cover 6–8 weeks before the last frost, or direct sow after the last frost when soil is consistently warm; in mild climates, autumn sowing may be possible. Use a fine, free-draining seed mix, press seeds onto the surface and avoid burying; a very light dusting of vermiculite helps maintain humidity while allowing light. Maintain 20–24°C and even moisture until emergence, typically within 7–21 days. Harden off and transplant once nights are mild, spacing plants 25–30 cm apart. Choose full sun in cooler summers, or provide light afternoon shade where heat is intense. Grow in fertile, well-drained soil and water regularly without waterlogging. Pinch growing tips to encourage branching and a compact habit. Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Perilla can self-seed readily; deadhead before seed set to limit spread, or allow flower spikes to mature and dry if saving seed. Additional varieties and cultivation notes are available from SeedsChoice.
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