Green Shiso

Shiso

Zone 7a Save Garden

🌱 60d to harvest Upright

Aromatic and vividly alive, Green Shiso forms lush, upright mounds of tender leaves with a cool, herbaceous fragrance and a crisp…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 30th
Last Frost	Apr 20th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jun 1st
Harvest Begins	Jul 31st
Harvest Ends	Oct 20th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	60
Sun Requirements	Part Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	60
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	10

Recommended Companions

Moonsong Deep Orange Marigold

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Perilla frutescens (green shiso), and how can I treat it?

Shiso (Perilla frutescens) is prone to aphids and occasional powdery mildew, especially when leaves stay damp and airflow is poor. Check weekly; if you see clusters of aphids, spray plants with a strong stream of water and then use insecticidal soap, targeting the undersides of leaves. For powdery mildew, remove badly affected leaves, improve spacing/airflow, and water at the base in the morning so foliage dries quickly.

How often should I water green shiso during its main growing phase?

During active growth (from establishment through near maturity), keep the soil consistently lightly moist—aim for top 1 inch of soil to dry slightly before watering again. Water deeply to wet the root zone, but avoid soggy conditions, since Perilla frutescens can develop leaf problems when the soil stays wet. If growing in containers, check moisture more often because the mix can dry out faster.

How can I tell when green shiso is ready to harvest?

Harvest green shiso about 45–60 days after sowing, or sooner by taking leaves once plants have several sets of true leaves. For best flavor, pick tender young leaves regularly—thicker, older leaves can turn more bitter. If you’re harvesting for a “cut-and-come-again” crop, cut stems just above a leaf pair to encourage new growth and delay flowering.

Aromatic and vividly alive, Green Shiso forms lush, upright mounds of tender leaves with a cool, herbaceous fragrance and a crisp, slightly peppery bite. Leaves are medium-sized with a pronounced, quilted texture that holds beautifully in fresh use and shines when used to perfume sauces, wrap-style preparations, and quick pickling. Harvest begins around 60 days, with steady leaf production for gardeners who love bold, green flavor at their fingertips.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 50°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 10 days first.

Expert Note

Warm seedlings slightly before transplanting and keep soil evenly moist—shiso grows best once nights stay reliably mild.