How to Grow Shiso: A Fascinating Herb with Unique Culinary Uses
How to Grow Shiso?
To grow shiso, start by either sowing the seeds directly outdoors in late spring when temperatures are above 8°C (45°F) or by starting them indoors in early spring.
If starting indoors, mix equal parts sterilized seed starting mix and perlite and place the seeds in the mixture.
They should germinate in 7 to 14 days.
Shiso plants do well in full sun to partial shade and require fertile, well-drained soil.
To promote bushier plants, regularly pinch the growing tips.
Water regularly, especially in hot weather.
Harvest leaves as needed throughout the summer and harvest the flowering tops in late summer.
In autumn, harvest seeds to plant next spring.
Remember that shiso seeds have a shelf life of about one year.
Key Points:
- Shiso can be grown by sowing seeds outdoors in late spring or starting them indoors in early spring.
- If starting indoors, use a mix of sterilized seed starting mix and perlite.
- Germination takes 7 to 14 days.
- Shiso thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
- To promote bushier plants, regularly pinch the growing tips.
- Water shiso regularly, especially in hot weather.
- Harvest leaves throughout the summer and flowering tops in late summer.
- In autumn, harvest seeds for planting next spring.
- Shiso seeds have a shelf life of about one year.
Did You Know?
1. Shiso, also known as Perilla, is a member of the mint family and is closely related to basil and rosemary.
2. In Japanese cuisine, shiso leaves are often used as a natural food coloring to give dishes a vibrant purple or green hue.
3. Shiso is believed to have medicinal properties and has been used in traditional medicine to relieve symptoms of asthma, allergies, and colds.
4. The name “shiso” is derived from the Chinese word “zi-su,” which means “purple perilla,” referring to the plant’s purple leaves.
5. Shiso seeds were historically used as a natural pesticide due to their pest-resistant properties, making them a valuable asset in organic gardening.
Flavor And Characteristics Of Shiso Leaves
Shiso, also known as Perilla frutescens var. crispa, is a delightful herb that comes from the mint family. It is widely appreciated for its strongly flavored leaves that have a tangy taste resembling cumin, mint, nutmeg, and anise. The unique combination of flavors makes shiso a versatile ingredient in various cuisines around the world.
The leaves of shiso are not only delicious but also visually appealing. They have an attractive deep green color with a slightly wrinkled texture. The elliptical leaves come in different shapes, including serrated or deeply lobed, adding an interesting aesthetic element to any herb garden or plate of food. These striking leaves not only contribute to the herb’s appeal but also offer numerous health benefits due to their high content of essential oils, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Cultivating Shiso: Similarities To Growing Basil
If you have experience growing basil, you’ll find that cultivating shiso is remarkably similar. Both herbs belong to the Lamiaceae family, also known as the mint family. This family includes many aromatic plants renowned for their culinary and medicinal qualities. The similarities in the cultivation process make it easier for gardeners with basil-growing knowledge to venture into growing shiso.
To ensure successful growth, shiso requires well-drained soil and a location that receives full sun to partial shade. The herb thrives in fertile soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. Consider enriching the soil with organic matter, such as compost, before planting for optimal nutrient availability.
Ideal Timing And Conditions For Growing Shiso
Timing and suitable conditions play an integral role in growing shiso successfully. It is best to start growing shiso indoors in early spring, roughly six to eight weeks before the last frost date, or directly sow the seeds outdoors in late spring when nighttime temperatures are consistently above 8°C (45°F).
Shiso seeds require warmth and moisture to germinate effectively. If you choose to start indoors, use a mix of sterilized seed starting mix and perlite in equal parts. Sow the seeds approximately ¼ inch deep and maintain a consistent temperature between 18°C and 21°C (65°F and 70°F). In about seven to fourteen days, you should witness the seeds breaking through the soil surface, signaling successful germination.
Starting Shiso Indoors: Seed Mix And Germination
Starting shiso indoors allows for a head start on the growing season and more control over the germination process. To create an ideal seed mix, blend equal parts of sterilized seed starting mix and perlite. This mixture ensures shiso seeds receive adequate drainage while retaining the necessary moisture for germination.
Once the seed mix is ready, sow the shiso seeds about ¼ inch deep into the soil. Providing consistent warmth and moisture during the germination period is essential. Maintain a temperature between 18°C and 21°C (65°F and 70°F) for optimal results. With proper care and following the ideal conditions, tiny sprouts should start breaking through the surface within 7 to 14 days.
Essential Care Tips For Growing Shiso Plants
Once your shiso plants are established, it is crucial to provide them with the care and attention they need to thrive. Regularly pinch back the growing tips to promote bushier plants with abundant leaves. This pruning technique encourages lateral growth by redirecting the plant’s energy from vertical growth to leaf formation. Additionally, it helps prevent the plants from becoming leggy or overly tall.
Watering is a critical aspect of shiso care, especially during hot weather. Aim to provide consistent moisture by watering your plants regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist. However, avoid over-watering and ensure proper drainage to prevent rotting roots or fungal diseases.
Harvesting And Maintaining Shiso Plants
One of the joys of growing shiso is having a fresh supply of its flavorful leaves throughout the summer. Harvest the leaves as needed by plucking them from the plant, starting from the top and working your way down. Regular harvesting promotes continuous growth and prolongs the plant’s productivity.
Toward the end of the summer, pay attention to the shiso plant’s flowering tops. Harvest these before they fully open to prevent the plant from self-seeding and redirect its energy towards leaf production. Additionally, if you wish to save the seeds for future planting, allow some of the flowers to mature fully, and harvest the seeds in autumn.
It’s worth noting that shiso seeds have a typical lifespan of one year. Therefore, proper storage is crucial to maintain their viability. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place, preferably in an airtight container, until you are ready to plant them the following spring.
In summary, growing shiso can be a rewarding experience for both gardening enthusiasts and culinary adventurers. The herb’s unique flavor profile and visual appeal make it a valuable addition to any herb garden or plate of food. With its similarities to growing basil and its straightforward cultivation process, shiso is an accessible herb to grow for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike.
- Harvest leaves from the top down
- Harvest flowering tops before they fully open
- Save seeds for future planting
- Store seeds in a cool, dry place
- Shiso seeds have a typical lifespan of one year
Frequently Asked Questions
Is shiso hard to grow?
Shiso, a versatile plant, is relatively easy to grow. It thrives in full sun and is not too picky about soil conditions, making it a convenient choice for aspiring gardeners. However, there is a word of caution when cultivating shiso – it has a tendency to self-seed vigorously. In mild winter climates, this can lead to the plant becoming a potential weed that can invade natural areas. To prevent unintended spread, it is advisable to remove all the flowers as a precautionary measure.
Can you grow shiso at home?
Yes, shiso can be successfully grown at home. To start, sow the seeds indoors about 4 to 6 weeks before the last spring frost. For optimal germination, soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting. Place the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep them in an area with bright, indirect light. With proper care and attention, you can enjoy the flavorful leaves of shiso grown right at home.
Does shiso need light to germinate?
Yes, shiso does require light to germinate. When sowing shiso seeds in the spring after the last frost, it is important to sow them shallowly or cover them lightly, as light is necessary for the seeds to germinate. By providing the seeds with adequate exposure to light, they will have the best chance of successfully sprouting and growing into healthy shiso plants.
Does shiso need fertilizer?
Shiso, with its preference for fertile and well-drained soil, benefits from the addition of fertilizer to promote its growth. While it can tolerate average soil conditions, providing nutrient-rich soil through light fertilization enhances its development. Incorporating organic matter into the soil before sowing seeds further supports ample growth, ensuring that shiso thrives in the ideal environment to reach its full potential.