Korean Shiso Seeds - Perilla frutescens var crispa

2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11

USDA Zones 2-11 - Korean Shiso (Perilla) is grown as a fast-growing, warm-season annual in all climates. It is sensitive to frost and must be planted when the weather is consistently warm.

Best Performance - This herb thrives in the long, warm, and humid summers found in zones 5-10. These conditions promote lush, vigorous leaf growth for a continuous and abundant harvest from summer until the first frost.

Northern Zones (2-5) - To ensure a long harvest season, it is highly recommended to start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant seedlings outside only after all danger of frost has passed and nighttime temperatures are reliably above 50 degrees F.

Hot Climate Zones (8-11) - Seeds can be sown directly in the garden once the soil has warmed in the spring. In the intense heat of deep-south or desert summers, plants benefit from a location that receives some afternoon shade to prevent wilting.

Soil Temperature - Requires warm soil for germination. The ideal soil temperature is between 65-70 degrees F. Germination can be slow and erratic in soil that is too cool.

Growing Season - You can begin harvesting leaves in approximately 60-70 days. The plant will continue producing abundantly until it is killed by the first hard frost in the fall.

Learn more about USDA Hardiness Zones here

When to Plant
Indoors: For shorter seasons, start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.

Outdoors: Sow seeds directly into the garden once the soil has warmed to at least 65 degrees F and nighttime air temperatures are consistently warm.

Where to Plant
Sunlight: Full sun is ideal (6+ hours/day). In very hot climates, partial afternoon shade is beneficial.

Soil: Plant in rich, fertile, well-draining soil with consistent moisture. Amend the soil with compost before planting for best results.

Containers: A perfect choice for pots. Use a quality potting mix and a container that is at least 8-10 inches wide and deep.

How to Plant
Prepare the Seeds (Optional but Recommended): Perilla seeds have a hard coat and can benefit from a cold, moist stratification period to improve germination. To do this, mix seeds with a small amount of damp sand or a moist paper towel, place them in a sealed plastic bag, and refrigerate for 1-2 weeks before planting.

Sow Seeds: Perilla seeds need light to germinate. Sow seeds on the surface of the soil and gently press them down to ensure good contact. Do not cover them with soil, or cover with only a very scant 1/8 inch of fine soil.

Water: Mist the seeds gently to avoid dislodging them. Keep the soil surface consistently moist but not waterlogged until germination. Using a plastic dome or wrap over your seed tray can help maintain humidity.

Germination: Be patient. Germination can be slow and may take anywhere from 7 to 21 days.

Spacing: Once seedlings have their first true leaves, thin them to stand 10-12 inches apart.

Care and Harvesting
Watering: Perilla is thirsty and does not like to dry out. Water regularly and deeply, especially during hot, dry spells.

Pinching: To encourage a bushier plant with more leaves, pinch back the top set of leaves on the main stem when the plant is about 6-8 inches tall. Continue to pinch back tips throughout the season.

Harvesting: Begin harvesting leaves from the bottom of the plant upwards once it is well-established. You can harvest individual leaves as needed or cut entire stems, which will encourage new side shoots to grow. The flavor is best before the plant begins to flower.