How to Grow Shiso From Seed

Are you a fan of Japanese cuisine and want to grow your shiso plant at home? Shiso, also known as perilla or beefsteak plant, is an herb commonly used in Asian dishes.

How to grow shiso from seed is a rewarding process that allows you to enjoy its unique taste and versatility straight from your garden. Though it may seem intimidating at first, shiso is relatively easy to cultivate with the right approach and conditions. By understanding its growth requirements, such as proper soil, sunlight, and watering needs, you can successfully nurture shiso plants that thrive throughout the growing season.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, planting shiso seeds is a great way to enhance your garden and your kitchen. Let’s explore the basics of growing shiso and some helpful tips to ensure a bountiful harvest.

What Are the Benefits of Growing Shiso?

Shiso, also known as perilla or Japanese basil, is a versatile plant that offers numerous benefits to gardeners and cooks alike. Here are some of the top reasons why you should consider adding shiso to your garden:

• Culinary Uses: Shiso leaves have a unique flavor that can add depth and complexity to many dishes. It is commonly used in Japanese and Korean cuisines, but it also pairs well with other Asian flavors and can be incorporated into various recipes.
• Nutritional Value: Shiso leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium. They also contain antioxidants that may help boost your immune system and improve overall health.
• Medicinal Properties: In traditional medicine, shiso has been used to treat various ailments such as allergies, asthma, digestive issues, and even hangovers. Some studies have also shown that the active compounds in shiso leaves may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects.
• Easy to Grow: Shiso is a hardy plant that can thrive in most climates with minimal care. It is relatively low maintenance and doesn’t require much space, making it a great choice for beginner gardeners or those with limited gardening space.
• Attract Pollinators: The unique purple or red flowers of shiso are not only visually appealing but also attract a variety of pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to your garden. This not only helps with pollination but also adds beauty and diversity to your garden.

What Will You Need?

• Seeds or Seedlings: Shiso seeds can be easily found at most garden centers, nurseries, or online stores. Alternatively, you can also grow shiso from a seedling purchased from a nursery.
• Potting Soil: While shiso is not very picky about the type of soil it grows in, using good-quality potting soil will ensure healthier and more productive plants. You can choose to make your potting mix using compost and other organic materials or buy pre-made mixes.
• Container: Depending on the amount of space you have available, you can either grow shiso in small pots or larger containers like raised beds. Just make sure that the container has good drainage and is large enough to accommodate the roots of the plant.

10 Easy Steps on How to Grow Shiso From Seed

Step 1. Choose Quality Seeds: 

Start by selecting high-quality shiso seeds from a trusted source. Look for seeds that are fresh and labeled with the current or most recent growing season, as fresher seeds tend to have better germination rates. Research and decide whether you want to grow green shiso (Perilla frutescens) or red shiso (Perilla frutescens var. crispa), as each variety has its unique flavor and uses.

Opt for organic or untreated seeds if you prefer to avoid chemicals. Ensuring you have healthy, viable seeds is the first step toward a successful harvest. 

Step 2. Prepare the Soil:

Start by selecting a location with well-drained soil that receives ample sunlight for optimal growth, as shiso thrives in sunny conditions. Test your soil’s pH level and aim for a slightly acidic to neutral range of 5.5 to 7.0. Amend the soil with organic compost or well-rotted manure to enrich it with essential nutrients, ensuring the plants will have a fertile environment to grow.

Loosen the soil using a garden fork or tiller to improve aeration and drainage, which is essential for healthy root development. If your natural soil is too clay-heavy or sandy, consider using raised garden beds with a quality soil mix tailored for herbs. Taking the time to carefully prepare your soil will lay the foundation for vibrant, productive shiso plants.

Step 3. Select a Location:

Shiso thrives in a location that receives plenty of sunlight, ideally 6 to 8 hours of direct light daily. While it can tolerate partial shade, full sun will encourage more robust growth and larger leaves. Choose a spot that is sheltered from strong winds, as the delicate stems and leaves can be damaged by harsh conditions.

If you’re planting shiso in a garden bed, ensure it is not crowded by taller plants that might block sunlight. For container gardening, position the pots on a sunny balcony or patio where the light is abundant. Selecting the right location will help your shiso plants flourish and maximize their yield.

Step 4. Pre-Soak the Seeds:

Before planting, it’s beneficial to pre-soak shiso seeds to improve germination. Place the seeds in a small bowl or container with lukewarm water and allow them to soak for 24 hours. This process softens the seed coat, making it easier for the seeds to sprout.

Be sure to use fresh, clean water and avoid soaking the seeds for too long, as this could lead to rotting. Once soaked, the seeds will be ready for planting in your prepared garden bed or containers.

Step 5. Plant the Seeds:

After soaking, plant the shiso seeds approximately 1/4 inch deep in the soil. Space the seeds about 6-12 inches apart to give the plants ample room to grow. Ensure the soil is moist but well-drained, as shiso thrives in such conditions. Lightly cover the seeds with soil, and gently pat the surface to secure them in place. Place the containers or garden bed in a location with partial to full sunlight to support healthy germination and growth.

Step 6. Water Gently:

Water the soil gently using a watering can or a spray nozzle to avoid displacing the seeds. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged, as excessive water can hinder germination or cause the seeds to rot.

Monitor the moisture levels daily, especially during warmer weather, to provide the optimal environment for the seeds to sprout.

Step 7. Provide Warmth:

Ensure that the seeds are kept in a warm environment to encourage successful germination. Most seeds germinate well at temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C).

If the weather is cooler, you can use a seedling heat mat or place the containers in a naturally warm spot, such as near a sunny window. Consistent warmth is essential for the seeds to break dormancy and begin growing.

Step 8. Wait for Germination:

Patience is key during this stage. After planting and providing the necessary warmth and moisture, the seeds will take some time to germinate. The germination period varies depending on the type of seed, ranging from a few days to several weeks. Check the containers daily to ensure the soil remains moist but not overly wet. Avoid disturbing the soil as the seeds develop, and look out for the first signs of tiny green sprouts breaking through the surface, which indicates successful germination.

Step 9. Thin the Seedlings:  

Once the seedlings have grown to a few inches in height and developed their first set of true leaves, it’s time to thin them. Thinning involves removing excess seedlings to ensure proper spacing, allowing the remaining plants to grow strong and healthy. Refer to the instructions on the seed packet for the recommended spacing between plants. To thin, gently snip the weaker seedlings at the soil level with scissors rather than pulling them out, which could disturb the roots of the nearby plants.

Step 10. Care for Your Plants:

Proper care is essential to ensure your plants thrive as they grow. Begin by watering them consistently, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Regularly check for weeds around your plants and remove them, as weeds can compete for nutrients and water. Monitor your plants for signs of pests or diseases, and take action as needed—organic options like insecticidal soap or hand-picking pests are effective for many garden issues. Additionally, consider using mulch to help retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.

By following these steps, you can enjoy a thriving shiso plant that adds both vibrant flavors to your dishes and beauty to your garden.

Conclusion

How to grow shiso from seed can be a rewarding and enjoyable process for gardeners of all skill levels.

By understanding the benefits of this versatile herb, gathering the right materials, and carefully following the steps for planting and care, you can cultivate healthy shiso plants that flourish throughout the season. Avoiding common mistakes further ensures your success, leading to a bountiful harvest.

Whether used in culinary dishes or as an ornamental addition to your garden, shiso is a wonderful plant to grow and will undoubtedly bring beauty and flavor to your life.