Growing shiso can be a rewarding experience for gardeners, as it is relatively easy to grow and care for. In terms of sunlight, shiso thrives best in full sun, which means it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. However, it can also tolerate partial shade, although it may not grow as vigorously in these conditions.
One of the great advantages of growing shiso is its adaptability to different soil types. While it prefers well-draining soil, it is not finicky about the specific type of soil it is planted in. Whether you have sandy, loamy, or clay soil, shiso will generally be able to grow well. However, it’s always a good idea to ensure that the soil is enriched with organic matter and is kept moist but not waterlogged.
It’s worth noting that shiso has a tendency to readily self-seed. This means that if you allow the plant to go to seed, it may spread and become invasive in your garden or natural areas. To prevent this unintended spread, it is recommended to remove the flowers as soon as they start to form. By doing so, you can enjoy the benefits of growing shiso without worrying about it becoming a problematic weed.
In regions with mild winters, shiso can become even more invasive as it may survive the winter and continue to spread. If you live in such a climate, it’s important to stay vigilant and regularly monitor the plant to prevent any unwanted spread. This can be done by removing any seedlings or self-seeded plants that appear in your garden.
In my personal experience, I have found shiso to be a relatively low-maintenance plant. Once established, it grows vigorously and can provide a bountiful harvest of leaves for culinary use. I have grown shiso both in containers and in the ground, and it has thrived in both settings. The key is to provide it with the right amount of sunlight, regular watering, and occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer.
To summarize, shiso is not particularly hard to grow. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is adaptable to different soil types and is relatively low-maintenance. However, it is important to be cautious about its tendency to self-seed and potentially become invasive. By removing the flowers and monitoring its growth, you can enjoy the benefits of growing shiso without worrying about its unintended spread.
