How to Propogate Shiso Plant the Right Way

Shiso, also known as Perilla or Japanese basil, is a flavorful and aromatic herb commonly used in Asian cuisines. With its distinct taste and vibrant appearance, it has become a popular addition to many dishes and garnishes. If you are a fan of shiso and want to grow your own plants, propagation is a cost-effective and fulfilling way to do so. In this article, we will guide you through the process of propagating shiso plants the right way.

Understanding Shiso Plants

Before diving into the propagation process, it is essential to understand the nature and characteristics of shiso plants. Shiso is an annual herb that belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae). There are two main varieties: green (Ao-jiso) and red (Aka-jiso). Green shiso has a tangy flavor with hints of cinnamon, while red shiso has a stronger, more peppery taste. Both varieties can be propagated using similar methods.

Shiso plants prefer well-drained soil and partial shade, although they can tolerate full sun. They require regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Shiso grows best in temperate climates, and its leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season.

Propagation Methods

There are several methods you can use to propagate shiso plants successfully. These include seed sowing, stem cuttings, and division. Each method has its advantages and challenges, so it is worth trying different approaches to find what works best for you.

Seed Sowing

Seed sowing is the most common method used to propagate shiso plants. It is relatively straightforward and suitable for beginners. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Obtain high-quality shiso seeds from a reputable supplier or save seeds from mature plants.
2. Fill a seed tray or small pots with well-draining potting mix.
3. Moisten the soil before sowing the seeds to ensure proper germination.
4. Sow the seeds evenly on the soil surface, pressing them lightly into the soil without covering them completely.
5. Place a plastic cover or a clear plastic bag over the tray or pots to create a mini greenhouse effect that will aid germination.
6. Position the tray or pots in a warm location with indirect sunlight.
7. Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering.
8. Germination usually occurs within 7 to 14 days.
9. Once the seedlings have grown to a suitable size, transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden bed, ensuring proper spacing between plants.

Stem Cuttings

Another effective method of propagating shiso plants is through stem cuttings. This method allows you to replicate a specific variety of shiso that you particularly enjoy. Here’s how to propagate shiso using stem cuttings:

1. Select healthy stems from an established shiso plant. Ideally, choose stems that are semi-hard and free from any signs of disease or damage.
2. Using clean pruning shears or scissors, cut a 4-6 inch section of the stem just below a node (the point where leaves attach to the stem).
3. Remove any lower leaves from the cutting, leaving only a few leaves at the top.
4. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development (optional).
5. Fill a small pot with well-draining potting mix and create a hole in the center using a pencil or your finger.
6. Insert the cutting into the hole and gently firm the soil around it.
7. Water the cutting thoroughly and place it in a warm, shaded area away from direct sunlight.
8. Mist the cutting daily to maintain humidity levels and prevent wilting.
9. After 2-3 weeks, the cutting should develop roots. You can gently tug on the stem to check for resistance, indicating root growth.
10. Once the roots are established, transplant the cutting into a larger pot or directly into the garden bed.

Division

Division is a method primarily used for mature shiso plants that have developed multiple stems and a strong root system. Here’s how to propagate shiso through division:

1. Choose a mature shiso plant that has been growing for at least one year.
2. Carefully dig up the entire plant, taking care not to damage the roots.
3. Gently separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring that each division has several stems and a healthy root system.
4. Replant each division in a suitable pot or garden bed, making sure to backfill with soil and water thoroughly.
5. Provide proper care and maintenance to ensure the divisions establish themselves and continue to grow.

Caring for Propagated Shiso Plants

Once you have successfully propagated your shiso plants, it is essential to provide them with proper care to ensure their healthy growth. Here are some general care tips for propagated shiso plants:

• Water regularly: Shiso plants prefer consistently moist soil, so water them regularly but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
• Provide partial shade: While shiso can tolerate full sun, providing partial shade during the hottest parts of the day will help prevent leaf scorching.
• Fertilize sparingly: Shiso plants do not require heavy fertilization. A balanced organic fertilizer applied once every month during the growing season is sufficient.
• Harvest leaves regularly: Regularly harvesting leaves from your shiso plants will encourage bushier growth and ensure a continuous supply of fresh leaves for culinary purposes.

By following these propagation methods and caring for your shiso plants properly, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of this flavorful herb throughout the growing season. Whether you choose to propagate through seed sowing, stem cuttings, or division, the satisfaction of growing your own shiso plants is truly rewarding.