When to plant basil leaves?

Perilla, also known as Perilla frutescens, red perilla, white perilla or fragrant perilla, is a versatile plant. Adding basil leaves or spikes to cooking, especially when cooking fish, can add a unique aroma and flavor, making the dish more delicious. Perilla leaves can not only be eaten raw, but also pickled. Perilla prefers a warm and humid environment. Its seeds will start to germinate when the temperature reaches above 5℃, and the most suitable germination temperature range is 18℃ to 23℃. During the seedling stage, perilla can tolerate brief low temperatures of 1°C to 2°C, which allows it to grow in a variety of climatic conditions. So when should perilla leaves be planted?

When to plant basil leaves?

The planting time of perilla is usually in spring or autumn, as follows:

1. Spring Planting

Perilla is usually planted around March every year. The temperature and air humidity in this season are more suitable for the growth of perilla, and the rainfall is relatively abundant at this time, so the seed germination rate is higher. Spring is one of the best seasons for perilla growth. At this time, the temperature is suitable, the sunshine is sufficient, and the soil moisture is moderate, which is suitable for the growth and development of perilla. If you plant basil in spring, you can harvest it from June to September.

2. Autumn Planting

Perilla can also be planted in September and October. The temperature in autumn is suitable and the rainfall is moderate, which is very beneficial to the growth and development of perilla. Generally, perilla planted in autumn can be harvested from December to March of the following year.

Perilla seeds require suitable temperature conditions during germination and growth. The best temperature range for germination of shiso seeds is 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Within this temperature range, seeds have a higher germination rate and germinate faster. Once the perilla seeds have germinated and grown into seedlings, the ideal growing temperature range is 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). Therefore, choosing to plant perilla in spring or autumn when the temperature is suitable can provide it with good growing conditions.

Perilla planting methods and techniques

1. Choose the right seeds

Choose fresh, high-quality perilla seeds, which will help improve germination rate and growth quality.

2. Prepare the Soil

Shiso prefers fertile, well-drained soil. Before planting, you can add some well-rotted organic fertilizers , such as compost or humus, to the soil to increase soil fertility.

3. Planting seeds

In spring or autumn, when the soil temperature is stably above 15°C, you can start sowing. Sprinkle the seeds on the soil surface and lightly cover with a thin layer of soil about twice the diameter of the seeds.

4. Maintain humidity

After planting, keep the soil moist but not too wet. Use a sprayer to lightly mist with water to avoid washing away the seeds.

5. Lighting

Perilla requires full sun, at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Make sure the planting site gets full sunlight.

6. Temperature management

Perilla seeds germinate best at temperatures between 18°C ​​and 23°C. If nighttime temperatures are cooler, cover the plants with insulation to help maintain warmth.

7. Thinning

When the perilla seedlings grow to about 5 cm tall, thin them out, keeping an appropriate distance between the plants, usually 30 to 45 cm, to ensure that each plant has enough space to grow.

8. Watering

Perilla likes a humid environment, but cannot tolerate waterlogging. When watering, keep the soil moist, but avoid standing water. During dry periods, more frequent watering may be necessary.

The above is an introduction to the planting time and methods of perilla leaves. As a common seasoning plant, perilla leaves are widely used.