How to Sow and Grow Red Perilla Shiso Seeds in the UK 

Red Perilla (Perilla frutescens), commonly known as Shiso, is a versatile herb belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae). With its sweet, licorice-like flavour, Red Perilla is a fantastic addition to dishes such as stews, salads, and sushi. Native to mountainous regions of China and India, this herb thrives in the UK when given the right conditions. Its deep red leaves are not only a culinary delight but also an attractive ornamental feature in gardens and containers. Follow this comprehensive guide to successfully grow Red Perilla Shiso seeds. 

Why Grow Red Perilla Shiso? 

• Unique Flavour: Offers a mild, sweet, and licorice-like taste that elevates bland dishes. 
• Culinary Versatility: Use the leaves whole, sliced into strips, or as a seasoning. 
• Ornamental Appeal: Its vibrant red foliage adds beauty to herb gardens or flower borders. 
• Compact Growth: Ideal for pots, containers, or smaller garden spaces. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Sowing Red Perilla Shiso Seeds 

When to Sow

• Indoors: Sow seeds indoors year-round, ideally between late winter and early spring (February to April) for the best results. 
• Outdoors: Direct sowing outdoors is not recommended for the UK climate, as Red Perilla thrives in consistently warm temperatures. 

Preparing to Sow

• Soil Requirements: Use well-drained compost or a seed-starting mix. Enrich the soil with organic matter for added nutrients. 
• Temperature: Germination requires warm conditions of at least 20-25°C (68-77°F). Use a heated propagator or place pots in a warm, shaded greenhouse. 

Sowing the Seeds

1. Depth: Sow seeds on the surface of the compost and lightly press them into the soil. Do not cover the seeds completely, as they require light to germinate. 
2. Spacing: Space seeds at least 2-3 cm (1 inch) apart to avoid overcrowding. 
3. Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and hinder germination.
4. Germination Period: Seeds typically germinate within 10-28 days under optimal conditions. Place trays or pots in a warm, slightly shaded area, as direct sunlight can reduce germination rates. 
5. Transplanting Seedlings: Once seedlings reach a height of 4 cm (1.5 inches) and have developed strong stems, they are ready to be transplanted. Harden off seedlings by gradually acclimating them to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days. 
6. Spacing: Plant seedlings 15-30 cm (6-12 inches) apart in their final location to allow room for growth and airflow. 

Caring for Red Perilla Shiso Plants

• Sunlight: While seedlings prefer shaded areas during germination, mature plants thrive in full sun to partial shade. Ensure they receive at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. 
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering. Mature plants are more drought-tolerant but will produce the best foliage when watered regularly.
• Feeding: Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.
• Pest Protection: Protect young plants from slugs and snails by growing them on a windowsill, in a greenhouse, or using organic deterrents such as crushed eggshells or copper tape. 

Harvesting Red Perilla Shiso 

• When to Harvest: Plants reach maturity approximately 70 days after sowing. Harvest leaves as needed, starting when the plant is about 20 cm (8 inches) tall.
• How to Harvest: Pick leaves selectively or cut entire stems if desired. Regular harvesting encourages bushier growth and prevents the plant from bolting. 
• Continuous Yield: Shiso is a self-seeding plant. To maintain a continuous yield, allow some flowers to develop and set seed while harvesting the remaining leaves. 

Common Questions About Growing Red Perilla Shiso in the UK 

• Can Red Perilla be grown indoors year-round? Yes, Red Perilla thrives indoors if placed in a warm, bright location, such as a south-facing windowsill or under grow lights. 
• Does Red Perilla tolerate British weather? Mature plants are tolerant of cooler UK conditions, but seedlings require warmth and protection to establish. For best results, grow indoors or in a greenhouse during early stages. 
• How do I prevent bolting? Regular harvesting and pinching off flower buds can help delay bolting and ensure the plant continues to produce tender leaves. 

By following these steps, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of Red Perilla Shiso in your UK garden, greenhouse, or even on your windowsill. This easy-to-grow herb is perfect for both culinary and ornamental purposes, making it a valuable addition to any gardener’s collection. 

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