How Deep Does Perilla Plant Need to Be Planted?

Perilla plant, also known as Shiso or Japanese basil, is a versatile herb that is widely used in Asian cuisines for its distinct flavor and medicinal properties. If you are planning to grow perilla in your garden or container, it is essential to understand the correct planting depth to ensure its healthy growth and development. In this article, we will discuss how deep perilla plants need to be planted and provide some essential tips for successful cultivation.

Understanding Perilla Plant

Before delving into the planting depth, let’s first understand a bit about the perilla plant. Perilla (Perilla frutescens) is a member of the mint family and is native to East Asia. It is an annual herb with beautiful foliage ranging from green to purple-red, depending on the variety.

Perilla leaves have a unique flavor that can be described as a combination of mint, basil, and anise. Apart from its culinary uses, perilla leaves are also used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Ideal Planting Depth for Perilla

When it comes to planting perilla, the ideal depth is around 1/8 to 1/4 inch (3-6 mm). Since perilla seeds are small, they should be sown close to the soil surface for optimal germination. You can lightly press the seeds into the soil using your fingers or cover them with a thin layer of fine soil or vermiculite.

It is crucial not to plant perilla seeds too deep as they may struggle to emerge from the soil surface. Additionally, if the seeds are buried too deeply, they may not receive adequate light for germination.

Planting Tips for Perilla

To ensure successful growth of your perilla plants, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

Soil Preparation

Perilla plants prefer well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.0-7.0). Before planting, prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris and incorporating organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil fertility and drainage.

Seed Starting Indoors

If you live in a region with a short growing season or want to get a head start on your perilla plants, you can start seeds indoors. Plant the seeds in small pots or seed trays filled with seed-starting mix, pressing them lightly into the soil surface. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide warmth and light for germination.

Once the seedlings have developed a couple of sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted outdoors. Harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for a week before planting them in their final location.

Outdoor Planting

When planting perilla outdoors, choose a sunny location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Loosen the soil in the planting area and create shallow furrows or holes for sowing the seeds. Place the seeds at the recommended depth and cover them lightly with soil or vermiculite.

Space the seeds or seedlings about 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) apart to allow room for growth. Water the newly planted seeds or seedlings gently but thoroughly, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist throughout the germination period.

Watering and Mulching

Perilla plants have moderate water needs. Water them regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overhead watering as it can promote disease development.

Applying a layer of organic mulch around the base of perilla plants can help conserve moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. Use materials like straw, wood chips, or dried leaves as mulch, keeping it a few inches away from the plant stems to prevent rotting.

Pruning and Harvesting

To encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess, pinch off the tips of young perilla plants when they reach 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in height. This practice promotes branching and results in fuller, more compact plants.

You can start harvesting perilla leaves once the plants have developed several sets of leaves. Harvesting regularly, preferably in the morning when the leaves are at their freshest, promotes continuous growth and keeps the plants productive throughout the growing season.

Final Thoughts

Perilla plants are relatively easy to grow, provided you provide them with the right conditions and planting depth. By planting perilla seeds at the correct depth of 1/8 to 1/4 inch (3-6 mm) and following the tips mentioned above, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of this versatile herb.

Whether you use perilla leaves in your culinary creations or appreciate their medicinal properties, growing your own perilla plant allows you to have a fresh supply readily available whenever needed. So why not give it a try and add some vibrant foliage and unique flavor to your garden or containers with perilla?